Play value and implementing it at playgrounds

We hope our contribution to the design of playgrounds will improve the living situation of children. We believe that playgrounds are simply the consequence of a complex, continuously developing society, but they alone cannot really remedy the lack of free spaces for children.

Nevertheless, we believe playgrounds to be...

• an opportunity to compensate for the lack of general playful freedom of movement
• a necessary alternative to high-tech children’s lives

If a playground is to fulfil these tasks, the playgound itself as well as its equipment should have a high play value. The term play value is defined by the relationship between playground/play equipment and the user and must be kept firmly in mind during all planning.

A playground can already display a high play value by having a varied terrain structure with hills and banks, using a variety of paving and different ground surfaces.

A well-planned and appropriate planting increases this play value. This creates a harmonious atmosphere, which is a prerequisite for deeply involving play.

A playground with a high play value can be recognised by the signs of wear and tear. The trampled-down lawn, worn ladder rungs, steps, and floor of the equipment, worn shiny handles and handrails tell their own story about eager children’s hands and feet; they say: it is fun to “play" here!

The guiding principle for the development of our equipment is the play value, followed by safety, stability, ease of maintenance and environmental orientation.