Bernheim Forest's newly constructed treehouse has been specifically designed to accommodate visitors who use wheelchairs. The approach to accessibility involved utilizing the natural landscape and incorporating ramps to reach the elevated platform, situated approximately fifteen feet above the ground. The materials used in its construction were sourced from trees within the forest that had been felled by previous storms.
This new installation in Bernheim Forest is part of a larger natural play area that also includes other accessible amenities such as pathways and picnic facilities. A public event has been scheduled to officially introduce the new treehouse to families and celebrate the accomplishment. For a child who uses a wheelchair, the ability to access a treehouse — a classic childhood fantasy often rendered impossible by traditional designs — fosters a profound sense of inclusion, normalcy, and adventure.
Image Credit: Bernheim Forest
What Makes This Trend Stand Out
- Inclusive Nature Playgrounds
- The trend of creating inclusive nature playgrounds transforms outdoor spaces into accessible areas, ensuring children of all abilities can engage in imaginative play.
- Sustainable Architecture
- Utilizing storm-felled trees for construction exemplifies sustainable architecture, highlighting environmental responsibility and resource efficiency.
- Universal Design Innovations
- Incorporating ramps into elevated structures like treehouses showcases the application of universal design, enhancing accessibility and inclusivity in recreational facilities.
Sectors Adopting This
- Recreational Facilities
- The recreational facilities industry is poised to innovate by prioritizing accessibility in outdoor play environments, broadening its appeal and usability.
- Eco-friendly Construction
- Eco-friendly construction practices gain prominence as they integrate sustainable materials from natural environments into new projects.
- Landscape Architecture
- Landscape architecture evolves to address accessibility challenges, creating spaces where natural aesthetics and functional design coexist harmoniously.
