Open Space Design: Connecting People, Place, and Well-Being
At Gurrimatute, we approach open space design as an extension of the built environment—an opportunity to shape experiences that foster connection, wellness, and a strong sense of place. From vibrant playgrounds and community parks to outdoor fitness zones and restorative healthcare courtyards, our work is rooted in a deep understanding of how people engage with the outdoors.
We design environments that activate the senses—where the texture of materials underfoot, the rhythm of shade and sunlight, the movement of air, and the sounds of nature all contribute to a layered, immersive experience. Each space is carefully
composed to support a range of users and activities, balancing moments of energy and play with areas for reflection and respite.
Inclusivity is fundamental to our approach. Our playground designs incorporate equipment and layouts that are accessible to children of all abilities, including those with disabilities and sensory sensitivities. We create opportunities for parallel play, quiet retreat, and active engagement—ensuring that every child can participate, explore, and feel a sense of belonging.
Our process begins with listening. We seek to understand the cultural context, history, and daily patterns of
the communities we serve, ensuring that each open space feels authentic and meaningful. Whether designing a park that becomes a neighborhood gathering place, an outdoor fitness area that promotes healthy lifestyles, or a behavioral health courtyard that supports healing and dignity, we prioritize inclusivity, safety, and human-centered design.
Through thoughtful integration of landscape, architecture, and infrastructure, we create open spaces that are not only functional and resilient, but memorable—places that people return to, connect within, and feel a sense of belonging.
Experience
City of Coral Gables Salvadore Park | Coral Gables, Florida
Conversion of an existing playground into a fully inclusive and accessible park including barrier removal and installation of specially designed playground equipment for children in wheelchairs and children with sensory disorders. Additional services included landscaping, energy saving lighting, site furniture, and exterior and interior renovations for the restrooms.
Nicklaus Children's Hospital Psychiatric Courtyard | Miami, Florida
Design of hardscape, landscape, seating areas, fixed barbeque area, half basketball court, site amenities, and a water feature in the existing courtyard
City of Miami Hadley Park Outdoor Fitness Area | Miami, Florida
Outdoor fitness gym with landscaping areas, lighting, and walkway connectivity to an existing parking lot. Located in an open area surrounded by trees, the gym is accessed through walkways and served by an existing parking lot.
City of Coral Gables Mayor Dorothy Thomson Park | Coral Gables, Florida
The creation of a new park with a Wizard of Oz theme including a winding yellow brick road and butterfly garden. The park meets all ADA requirements and features a variety of surfaces including FlexiPave, synthetic grass, rubber mulch, and concrete.
City of Coral Gables Pierce Park | Coral Gables, Florida
Remodeling of the existing 14,872 sf park including new toddler playground equipment, replacement of existing swing set, addition of a new rope structure, new walkways, replacement of mulch with artificial grass, replacement of drinking fountains, new bicycle racks, replacement of perimeter fence, surveillance infrastructure, new site furniture, new light bollards, and cosmetic repairs to the existing gazebo.
City of Coral Gables Rotary Park | Coral Gables, Florida
Renovation of an existing park to include new playground equipment and replacement of surfaces including Flexi-Pave, synthetic grass, rubber mulch, and concrete.
Miami Dade College Medical Campus Plaza Renovation | Miami, Florida
Renovation of the 6,102-sf plaza to beautify and visually connect it with the adjacent MDC parking garage plaza, enhancing pedestrian access by removing perimeter walls and adding trees, seating, and shading. Improvements included new security gates, concrete repairs, cleaning, painting, and the addition of a new monument with a digital sign.
City of Miami 12th Avenue Park | Miami, Florida
Design of a new public park located on 12th Avenue and 14th Street in the City of Miami. Design features included playground structures for children 2-10 years old, custom designed benches, artificial grass, site lighting, drainage, Forever Lawn, lighting, perimeter fence and landscaping.
Top left: City of Coral Gables Mayor Dorothy Thomson Park; top right: City of Coral Gables Pierce Park; bottom right: City of Miami 12th Avenue Park; bottom left: City of Coral Gables Salvadore Park
