Explore Modern Playground Design for Landscape Architecture

For creative patterns and designs, mixed flooring materials are a great way to create excitement on the playground. EPDM can be installed with vibrant colours and shapes that last without fading to black. This is because they use virgin rubber shred. EPDM is often used to add extra durability to certain surface areas, having both an aesthetic and practical impacts.

Combining different surface materials in one area can clearly delineate play zones with different purposes or target users. The various colours and textures of each surface option are also important to appeal to different needs.

Artificial grass, popular on golf courses, creates a flat, low-maintenance surface. Meanwhile, a JungleMulch pathway is delineated by its vibrant colour through the green field. Also we can install distinct edging using the natural landscape to the course’s advantage. The seams between the two materials can also be made more accessible for wheelchairs and golf buggies alike with rubber edging ramp strips.

Rustic Red Rubber Mulch Pathway through a golf course

What is the Local Context?

A modern approach to playground design and landscaping projects involves personalisation. This makes it relevant to the end goal or purpose of the site.

Playground flooring design for young children should utilise vibrant colours and safe surfaces. For these sites, we recommend using non-toxic materials with minimal carbon residue or loose fill that could pose choking hazards. Whereas public gardens or golf courses require a more understated, elegant approach with accessible, hard-wearing pathways that blend with nature.

Large, colourful, themed playground with RubbaSmart

For designing an effective outdoor space, the context of the site is key. If the planned development is in an urban area, a natural colour-pallet and theming brings contrast attractive for park-goers.

For architects, the genius loci of a site means each place’s unique, and distinct sense of identity. This is often tied to the local nature, topography, or the surrounding culture. For public projects, landscaping developers are often tasked to capture the essence of a local area. Especially for public parks, as a centrepiece that will gain media attention and bring communities together. Using smart design, there are many ways to achieve this.

Using colour and relevant iconography as a cornerstone throughout the design process is important to achieving a unique final product. Our experienced design team works with you throughout to achieve a practical solution. All while continuing to reflect the creative playground design ideas that make up the ideal outdoor community hub.

Check out our nautical-themed playground for a local council below. There are many ways to tell a story in design. So, your choice of surface can play an important part in designing a playground project to stand out.

Multi-Use Play Areas

When including concerns for the end-point users in your initial designs, accessibility and catering for all types of users is important. As stated previously, some user groups can have special requirements, particularly important when creating something for young children. However, some requirements or desires that are part of each project’s purpose can be less obvious.

Adventure and excitement are obviously important for playgrounds aimed at children. But for different age groups, various levels of intensity are important to consider. Larger play structures, moving play equipment and sports areas appeal to older children and teenagers. However, you should design and construct these with safety and supervision in mind. Seating areas near these areas are a great way to integrate room for adult supervision into the design of the space. Also, soft surfacing like rubber grass mats with SmartPlay shock pads are vital to protect when falls do occur.

Looking for a Professional Playground Surface Supplier to Partner in your Playground Project?

Are you looking for advice and playground design help to find the right surface option to make your dream playground idea a reality? You can get in touch by requesting a callback or quote with our handy contact form at the top of our page. You can also call our team at 01564 742811.