bloomingdale playground

Location: New York, New York
Client: New York City Department of Parks & Recreation

Part of the Community Parks Initiative, the redesign of Bloomingdale Playground has been hailed as the “gold standard” for accessibility and inclusiveness in the city. The new design transforms an outdated schoolyard into a vibrant, inclusive neighborhood park that welcomes children and adults of all ages and abilities. The universally accessible playground was inspired by the spectrum of human ability and the idea that mobility and perception of all kinds are extendable by use of visual, auditory and mechanical devices.

A circular entry space with interactive sundial and compass provides orientation and a quiet respite before entering the park proper. Beyond that, a fitness area and spray shower/performance space are encountered, the shower’s wall accented with art tiles created by the community’s children.

The playground itself is a multi-level experience with ground level and vertical play elements. It accommodates both older and younger participants with age-specific play equipment, accessible swings, and a universal glider along with seating and picnic tables. Interaction between levels is encouraged by climbers, slides and a series of talk tubes that enable conversation throughout the play structure: children of all abilities are able to use all levels of the play structure. Ground level nooks foster quiet play as well.