playground horizons

Top 5 Playground Design Trends to Watch as the playground landscape continues to evolve, blending innovation with creativity.

At Moduplay, we are always at the cutting edge of play space design, anticipating and shaping the trends that will captivate the next generation. Here are the top trends we see taking centre stage.

As we journey through the dynamic realm of playground design, this year brings a wave of transformative trends set to redefine the way children interact and learn in play spaces. This article delves into the top five trends shaping the future of playgrounds, each reflecting a deep understanding of environmental consciousness, the enduring value of nature play, inclusivity in design, the educational importance of risk, and the power of community-driven customisation. These trends not only encapsulate a shift in playground aesthetics but also underscore a profound commitment to sustainable, inclusive, and engaging environments for the next generation. Join us as we explore these pivotal trends, offering a glimpse into the future of playgrounds that are not just play areas but holistic learning and development spaces.

01. Eco-Conscious Play Environments

Sustainability is becoming non-negotiable, and playgrounds are no exception. Expect to see more recycled materials, eco-friendly processes, and designs that teach children about environmental stewardship. Perfect for Landscape Architects and Council & Government looking to create sustainable and impactful public spaces.

02. Nature Play Isn’t Going Anywhere

As we look towards 2024, it’s clear that the draw of nature in play spaces continues to hold a significant place in playground design. Amidst the rapid advancements in technology and urbanisation, the intrinsic value of nature play stands out, offering essential benefits in child development. These environments, rich with natural elements like wood, water, and sand, not only provide a sensory-rich experience but also cultivate a deeper connection with the environment. Looking forward, expect to see an increased emphasis on integrating natural landscapes into play areas, reflecting a commitment to holistic development and environmental stewardship.

This trend resonates with a growing desire to balance digital influences with the timeless lessons and joys found in nature’s playground. Want to know how to build a successful Nature Play area? Find out here.

03. Inclusive Design Goes Mainstream

Inclusivity will move from a specialty to a standard. Playgrounds in 2024 will be designed so that children of all abilities can play together, with sensory-rich environments and universally accessible equipment. We call this “Invisi-Clusive Play” and you can read all about it here. This aligns perfectly with the needs of Educational Institutions and reflects the sector’s commitment to the ever-changing needs of our communities.

04. Adventure and Risk Play

There’s a growing recognition of the importance of risk in child development. Playgrounds will increasingly include elements that offer safe, managed risks, allowing children to test their boundaries and learn resilience. Ideal for fostering growth in Early Childhood Settings and adding value to Builders & Developers.

Risky play can manifest on the playground when children climb high structures, use fast-moving swings, or engage in activities that involve an element of danger. Parents play a crucial role in supervising risky play to ensure safety while allowing children to test their limits. It’s about striking a balance between encouraging exploration and adventure while minimizing potential harm. By supervising and discussing risks with their children, parents help them develop a sense of responsibility, learning how to make safer choices in future risky situations. You can read more about the 9 Types of Play here.

05. Customisation and Community Identity

Expect playgrounds to reflect the unique spirit and identity of their communities more than ever before. Customisation will allow schools and towns to infuse local culture, history, and art into their play spaces.

Here’s a few examples of play spaces we’ve customised for our clients, reflecting the history of each area and adding a personal touch to what is a key piece of infrastructure for the community:

• Bungendore Park
• Denman Memorial Park
• Fire Truck Memorial Playground – Telopea Park, Buxton

Moduplay is already embracing these 2024 playground design trends, ready to help you future-proof your play spaces.

Whether you’re planning a new project or revitalising an existing area, our team is here to bring the latest innovations to your community. Contact us to start a conversation about your next playground and stay ahead of the curve in 2024.