We have recently worked with U.S. based, Play by Design, on a project in Winfield, Kansas that was built primarily by volunteers.
The new equipment refurbished a play area that was destroyed by arson. The new design solution includes fireproof materials as well as increasing space between equipment in an effort to reduce the spread of fire in the event of another incident.
The resulting play area includes a blend of manufactured inclusive equipment, plus site-built equipment that reflects the unique characteristics of the rural Kansas community. This includes a real masonry castle which was built using real veneer stone sourced from a local quarry which donated all materials.
This play area was designed to be highly accessible to allow children of all abilities to play side by side. Our equipment installed as part of this aim, includes the Oyster Roundabout which can provide fast, inclusive, dynamic play and provide a social meeting point. It can also provide a support when used with a more gentle motion and the flat platform also aids access in and out of the dish, helpful for less able bodied children.
Dave Iannello at Play by Design says: “We are very proud of this project, it is a very unique approach. The play area is a wonderful hybrid solution combining the very best of all worlds.
“The process provides a very unique opportunity to communities to take ownership, investment and a tremendous sense of community pride, in addition to creating and strengthening friendships and bonds that last a lifetime. In many instances it has been described as a ‘life changing experience’.”
Cinzia Ferella from Sutcliffe Play says: “It’s fantastic for our equipment to be included in this play area and it has been lovely to work with the people at Play by Design who work on such lovely and honourable projects.”
