Photo Credit: Courtesy of Brenda J. Iraola, Landscape Architect and Designer
Themed playgrounds not only challenge children to use their imaginations, but they also tell a story, educate, and engage visitors. But they are not play spaces that can be “thrown together” in a hurry. Designers must research the appropriate theme for an area so it piques the community’s interest.
The Landscape Architecture Section of the Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission, Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation, has taken the lead in creating new “imagination playgrounds” for residents. Approximately 12 sites were selected for themed playgrounds throughout the county. With the help of local fifth and sixth graders, storylines were developed and concepts were drawn up for each of the sites, including the Berwyn Heights Indian Creek Playground.
When designing imagination-themed playgrounds, there are several factors to consider: