Clatskanie Elementary School was ready for an overhaul of their playground. Their existing space was entirely asphalt with one small, outdated play structure. This forced kids to play ball games and was causing competition and cooperation problems during and after recess.

Learning Landscapes created a concept plan and construction documents for a natural play update and expansion to the Clatskanie Elementary School Playscape. We ran a workshop with teachers, students, and parents to develop a project that met the various community needs. The resulting design included an imaginary play area, covered ball play area, climb and slide hill, lots of swings, a nature climbing area, outdoor quiet areas, chess, and a play swale. The design offered lots of variety for play opportunities. Gathering options ranged from a large amphitheater, to small covered group seating areas to buddy benches. The construction documents included both donated labor and materials as well as artist installed artwork. All the pieces were combined to create one cohesive play area that offered fun places to play while incorporating historic and ecological themes. Since the opening of the new play area school administrators have seen a dramatic decrease in behavior issues and recess bullying.

PROJECT INFO

Construction Cost – $300,000
Date of Completion – 2016 fall
Services Provided – Landscape Architectural Concept Design, Cost Estimating, Phasing, Permit Research, Construction Documents, Construction Assistance.