A Swedish design studio AndrénFogelström has redefined the children's playground experience with a series of sculptural spheres.
Located in a playground in Vårbergstoppen, Stockholm, are giant orange spheres that resemble large-scaled golf balls. These large spherical structures adorn the playground that sits atop a hilly park terrain. AndrénFogelström worked closely with Land Arkitektur, a local landscape architecture firm, to ensure their design integrated with the park's natural landscape.
The design attempts to counteract the urbanization occurring in Vårbergstoppen, a Swedish suburb. The large spherical shapes invite children to the park to play, climb and explore. The sculptures are made with perforated metal sheets cut into individual hexagons. Each sculpture has an opening for children to climb into. The spheres are distinctly placed atop the hill, which lets parkgoers enjoy uninterrupted views of the surrounding neighborhood.
Minimalist Children's Play Structures
AndrénFogelström's Spherical Structures Redefine Playgrounds
Trend Themes
1. Minimalist Play Structures - Simplified play structures that focus on sculptural design and integration with natural landscapes offer opportunity for playground equipment manufacturers to create unique, eye-catching designs.
2. Spherical Play Areas - The unique spherical design of playground equipment offers innovative opportunities for designers to create new playgrounds and redefine the traditional play area.
3. Playgrounds as Urban Art - Designing play structures as bold, artistic installations can transform urban spaces and create interactive artwork in unexpected places.
Industry Implications
1. Playground Equipment Manufacturing - Manufacturers of playground equipment have an opportunity to innovate beyond traditional design with features like minimalist and spherical play equipment.
2. Landscape Architecture - Collaboration between playground equipment manufacturers and landscape architects on playground design can lead to new sculptural forms and unique outdoor spaces.
3. Public Art - Designing play structures as public art installations can transform urban areas, bringing more art and interactive experiences to the public.