Context

The inclusive play area created by Jupiter Play at Ellen Brown Children’s Centre in the London Borough of Southwark was delivered through a collaborative, community-focused approach, actively shaped by the empowerment of local children and residents. The end result is a space that ensures their needs and preferences are reflected.

Project detail

A series of interactive workshops held by Jupiter brought children from the local area together to experience the latest outdoor interactive technologies available from Lappset. From mixing music on the Fono DJ booth to reaching a regional high score on the Sutu interactive ball wall, these workshops allowed residents to imagine a playground beyond traditional swings and roundabouts - a playground which promotes an active community within the heart of Southwark.

Furthering its community consultation through visual presentations, expert guidance, surveys and questionnaires, not only did Jupiter's team gather invaluable feedback to help inform the final design of the project, but the inclusive process also promoted a sense of ownership within the community. Including the end users from the very beginning ensured a well-loved and meaningful play space for years to come.

Jupiter Play believes that all good designs need a narrative. For this project the narrative focused on the extraordinary comeback of an unassuming hero: the White-letter Hairstreak butterfly. Devastated by an outbreak of Dutch elm disease in the 1970s, populations of the White-letter Hairstreaks have blossomed in recent years in large part due to the Southwark Nature Action Plan.

Jupiter wanted to harken back to this incredible ecological story in its designs. The company favoured warm, natural FHS Robinia timber throughout the park, painted in a kaleidoscope of vibrant oranges and browns inspired by the White-letter Hairstreak’s vibrant colouration. The design itself follows the flowing, fluttering movement seen with a Hairstreak in flight. Ingrained in the surfacing, the distinctive orange zigzag offers a subtle nod to the species' wings.

Testimonial

"We are so grateful to have a vibrant space where children can have fun, connect with others, and build lifelong memories. We are proud to have delivered this project on time and within budget, ensuring Bermondsey's young people have access to the quality play facilities they deserve."
– Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks and Young People