Inclusive Playground Design

Universally designed spaces are really just good design. Outdoor spaces are critical for the development, wellness and growth of people and communities and should be engaging, enjoyable and equitable for everyone. The playground is a reflection of the community and everyone should be able to experience it in a way that meets their abilities and preferences. Using the Principles of Universal Design, we design products and playspaces that bring joy, connection, opportunity and play to people of all ages, abilities, backgrounds and genders. Using play as a universal language, we provide spaces that help people find the best of themselves and each other through play.

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Principles of Universal Design

Developed to ensure that products and spaces can be used comfortably by all people, regardless of ability or preference, universal design goes above access and promotes the creation of equitable environments. By applying these principles to outdoor space designs, we create places that make everyone feel comfortable and belong – because they do!

Secure

Meeting applicable safety standards for products and surfacing is one way we can work to minimize the likelihood of hazards within the playspace.

Ease

Providing surfacing that allows everyone to move comfortably throughout the space is critical to universal design and important for the development of children, families and community members.

Approach

Having the space for everyone to move, turn, and maneuver is part of being in a comfortable environment.

Perceptible

Communicating important information in a way everyone can understand helps users feel secure and that the environment is designed for them.

Intuitive

Simple signage and graphics that are easy for everyone to interpret are one way to ensure everyone understands important messages.

Equitable

To create a truly equitable environment, having a variety of play events and challenge levels throughout the entire playspace is key.

Inclusive Playgrounds & Products

Play is essential at all ages and stages of life and ensuring everyone can experience equitable play is crucial to communities. Meeting ADA requirements is the law and access to public recreation and play areas is a civil right for all. Accessibility doesn’t equal inclusion; inclusion offers more. Inclusion means people feel like the space was designed for them. Whether it’s history being told, “can’t” being turned into “can,” a thirst for adventure being quenched or celebrating our natural ways of being, all people benefit from spaces designed for everyone in the community. Having a wide variety of play opportunities helps to engage and enrich all people, which is an important part of inclusion. Following the Principles of Universal Design features such as accessible parking, restrooms, pathways, sports fields and more bring everyone a full experience within the space.