This is part two of my inclusive playgrounds posts. I will highlight a few of my favorite projects. These sites peaked my interest as inclusive and incorporating lots of nature elements. They had elements or imagery that really seemed to click for the design work I do. Most of them elegantly (in least some part) address the question of how to connect kids with nature in an inclusive way.

If you missed the first inclusive post you can see it here.

McCarthy/Tezler School Playground – Spartanburg, SC

The playground design aims to incorporate the 5 senses and will be an instructional area, therapeutic area as well as an outdoor play area. “The playground is nearly entirely handicap-accessible, with ramps winding up to a tree house that overlooks the grounds and “Big Mountain,” which serves as the peak for sliding boards and a rock wall. The “Labyrinth” leads students through a maze of bricks set in thick grass, stimulating students’ minds and encouraging them to make choices. Nearby, a sound garden with chimes set to various heights appeals to students’ love of music, no matter if they’re learning from a wheelchair or standing up….The school serves all of Spartanburg’s seven school districts. Students are from 3 to 21 years old, with autism, severe medical, orthopedic, mental and emotional disabilities on varying levels. About 70 students are in wheelchairs and didn’t have a way to learn or play outdoors. Now, teachers use the outdoor natural play area as part of students’ therapies, as well as for learning and recreation.” Says goupstate.com

I am not suite sure how some of the lawn areas are considered accessible. Maybe there is a grating system in the soil or it is about maintenance level. But, either way the site have wonderful features.

Design Firms – Natural Playgrounds Company

Construction Costs – $610,000