Projects

Brief

The school wanted to provide outdoor provisions that matched the high quality education that they were delivering. They had two areas that they wanted to develop – the first area was just a grassy field that became very wet and muddy in the autumn and winter, with no equipment for outdoor play. The next area was a concrete space with a pebbled area that was not wheelchair accessible, and did not provide the stimulating environment that they wanted. Both spaces were to be redeveloped into safe, inclusive spaces that would provide multi-sensory stimulation. 

Solution

We worked with staff at the school to create a design that would encompass everything they wanted, while working with the site they had in mind. The end result was two thoughtfully designed areas that are fully inclusive, accessible to wheelchair users, and provided activity for children of all ages and abilities. Both areas have elements of physical play, quiet areas, vestibular and proprioceptive stimulation, and have a sensory garden feel. 

Project Details

Area 1

Group Swing – for vestibular stimulation 

Zig Zag Bridge – to help with physical development including agility, strength and coordination

Tunnel Mound – to add height and verticality 

Sensory Path – provides different textures for children to feel

Triangular Pergola – to create a designated quiet area to help children regulate

Sunlit Totems – to provide visual sensory elements

In-Ground Trampoline – wheelchair accessible bouncing facility to provide proprioceptive output

Luxury Artificial Grass Surfacing – makes the area completely level, making it accessible, and usable all year round. 

Area 2

Mini Group Swing and Spinner Bowl – to provide vestibular stimulation in a smaller footprint

Musical Instruments – for children to get auditorial output

Playground Pergola – to create designated sensory area with multi-coloured shade netting roof

(also retained the existing planters in this area so an element of nature can be included in the space)

Luxury Artificial Grass – to make the area accessible and usable all year round, as well as create clear boundaries for the areas

Result

Both areas are now accessible and inclusive spaces, providing spaces for children of all ages with varying needs to play, learn and develop in a safe and nurturing environment. We are extremely happy with the project and understand how much this will benefit the students at Samuel Cody School in the future.