2012 AILA National Landscape Architecture Award: Design
Secrets are shared with a friend.
Opportunities for hiding and observation invite exploration of the site.
Stencilled crocodiles and lily pads float on the coloured concrete river that winds through the site.
Mature Moreton Bay fig trees afford shade and shelter throughout the day.
Positive and negative cut-outs enclose gathering points on either side of the playspace.
Talking tubes allow encourage communication playspace between friend, new and old.
A mix of physical- and musical-based play equipment extends the range of play experiences for children.
The boardwalk/tree house provides universal access to the top of the double slide.
Custom timber construction provides the jungle aesthetic needed for the tree house.
Children of all abilities can experience being amongst the branches.
Care was taken to ensure that the existing trees were protected and showcased in the design.
Shaded picnic and barbeque areas allow friends and families to gather in comfort.
Balance beams and steppers allow children to test their abilities and explore the gardens.
High quality finishes and materials.
Children ‘hang out’ on the climbing frame.
Water spills from the flower fountain, adding the sound of running water to the noise of the playspace.
Water play provides sensory stimulation and cool relief on a hot day.
A mix of ‘natural’ and man-made materials creates a unique visual and tactile experience.
Water pours from the flower fountain.
The water play area provides a range on intended (and unintended) activities.
The interplay of positive and negative, light and shadow, adds an extra dimension to the experience.
Parents and children explore the new playground at the opening day.
Universal access is provided throughout the playground to accommodate wheelchairs and prams.
A grassy mound provides topological play opportunities.
Interaction is encouraged between children of different ages and abilities.
Mueller Park Universal Playspace by Ecoscape (Australia) Pty Ltd
Client: City of Subiaco
Partners: Water Features By Design
Jury comment
Mueller Park represents a promising progression in the development of all-abilities playgrounds. Rather than the primitive response of including one or two pieces of segregated and disability-specific equipment, modern playgrounds allow children of all abilities to play together.
This project goes a step further with the use of high-quality play equipment, carefully designed to suit the site and respect its context. Natural and reclaimed materials feature in a well resolved combination of off-the-shelf and custom-designed elements. The result is an intriguing and engaging playground which reflects an Australian commitment to social inclusion.
