Villa Academy – Seattle, WA

Pacific Northwest

 

Project Overview

Re-imagining a private school play yard to create a dynamic ship and explorer themed playground that’s physically challenging.

Play Design Features

• Ship and explorer theming
• Child-led risk assessment 
• Physical challenge with large climbing elements
• Sensory and imaginative play
• Stormwater management and water infiltration

Project Information

Villa Academy in Seattle, WA, envisioned a play environment that matched the excellence of its academic program. Their existing play area was aging, prompting a partnership with Learning Landscapes Design to re-imagine the central play space. The challenge was to expand opportunities for imaginative, sensory, and small-group play while preserving the campus’s essential large sport courts.
The solution features a main physical play zone anchored by a dynamic two-story ship, surrounded by turf-mound “islands,” boulders, climbing ropes, and overhead ladders. This blend of innovative, custom structures and high-quality manufactured elements creates an exceptionally engaging setting.

Complementing this active hub is a dedicated sensory and imaginative play zone, which includes large chess, painted games, an activity course, reading boats, a nature kitchen, and spaces for fort-building. The master plan thoughtfully integrates these new experiences, ensuring ample space remains for a running track, soccer, kickball, and a covered basketball court.

The result is a holistic play environment where every child can find a space for energetic competition, creative storytelling, and quiet discovery that meets their needs and sparks their curiosity.