The Ambulance Playground is not a place that tests the boundaries of children's safety when it comes to outdoor recreational activities. Instead, it was named after the use of an old ambulance as part of the fun jungle gym. Granted, if there were any accidents, an ambulance wouldn't be needed because the Ambulance Playground was built on the grounds of the Beit Cure hospital in Malawi.
Created by Dutch designers Pim van Baarsen and Luc van Hoeckel, the Ambulance Playground incorporates parts from the gutted vehicle to form various equipment. While the body acts as a car with a slide attached to it, the springs have been converted into teeter-tottering seats and tires turned into an abstract 'treadmill.' Most of the equipment is disabled-friendly.
Hospital Jungle Gyms
The Ambulance Playground is Made with Disabled Children in Mind
Trend Themes
1. Disabled-friendly Playgrounds - Opportunity for designing playgrounds that are inclusive and accessible for children with disabilities.
2. Creative Reuse of Materials - Opportunity to repurpose discarded objects to create unique and engaging playground equipment.
3. Incorporating Healthcare Elements in Play - Opportunity to integrate healthcare themes into playgrounds to promote health and wellness among children.
Industry Implications
1. Playground Equipment Manufacturing - Opportunity for manufacturers to develop innovative and inclusive playground equipment designs.
2. Sustainable Design and Architecture - Opportunity for architects and designers to explore creative ways to repurpose materials in their projects.
3. Healthcare and Wellness - Opportunity for hospitals and healthcare institutions to incorporate play areas for children to promote healing and well-being.