A Case Study in Outdoor Design: Berlin Playgrounds (2: Health and Safety)

A Case Study in Outdoor Design: Berlin Playgrounds 2 : Risk and Challenge

Project Information

The Schools Programme commissioned Grounds for Learning to create a series of nine case studies, which looks at and documents the widespread transformation of play spaces in schools, kindergartens and public parks in Berlin, Germany.

The nine case studies focus on different themes that were important factors in the spaces’ successes. The themes are; 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Choice Risk and Challenge Nature with a Capital N Play Machines Sand Shade and Seating Topography Variety and Texture Water

Within each case study there are examples and images from a variety of settings – schools, nurseries and public play parks – to show the variation and scope of the design ideas. All areas shown began life as flat, dull tarmac grounds but they demonstrate that it is possible to transform schoolyards into playgrounds.

Introduction Risk is frequently designed in to the grounds – with areas to jump from, uneven surfaces, thorns and spaces where children can play away from the constant watch of adults. There has been an increase in minor accidents since the tarmac was removed but fewer serious accidents teachers report that children seemed more self reliant, helping each other before seeking out an adult’s help.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Fire and Water Water is available in every setting - often out of a pump/tap onto sand and movable channels. Fire is available in a number of settings but never unsupervised. Access to the fire areas however is unrestricted.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Height There are many opportunities to climb on, jump off and swing from both fixed structures (climbing frames and swings) and natural elements (trees and rocks). Most of these are onto sand but not all.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Trip Hazard Irregular and uneven surfaces are common, both deliberately designed and through the materials used. Where tracks have to be smooth for wheelchairs they often have undulations and banked corners.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Supervision Supervision Huts, bushes and tunnels offer places to play away from supervision. This led to some ‘risky’ play but also encourage children to be more self sufficient, turning to others for help before looking to adults.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Loose Materials Sticks, stones, leaves and seats are just a few of the objects played with. This involves learning what is/isn’t poisonous, cooperating to move heavy objects and watching for trip hazards.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Berries and Thorns Berries, both edible and not, are grown to encourage pupils to differentiate between them and nettles, brambles and other plants where allowed to grow freely.

Berlin Playgrounds : Risk and Challenge Practicalities Insurance Play equipment and purchased objects have to conform to safety regulations and be checked and monitored regularly. Regulations regarding fall heights and depths of sand when under these areas are followed. However, on bespoke pieces the architects work with the insurance companies and they inspect each piece after installation to monitor the situation and tailor their provision.

Accidents The number of small accidents has increased since the removal of tarmac but the number of more serious accidents has decreased as children behave more cautiously, are aware of their own abilities and the consequences of their actions.

Project Information The Schools Programme commissioned Grounds for Learning to create a series of nine case studies, which looks at and documents the widespread transformation of play spaces in schools, kindergartens and public parks in Berlin, Germany.

The nine case studies focus on different themes that were important factors in the spaces’ successes. The themes are; 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9.

Choice Risk and Challenge Nature with a capital N Play Machines Sand Shade and Seating Topography Variety and Texture Water

For more information about what we do, and to view the other Case Studies, visit SmarterPlaces.org.

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