Elizabeth Austin Playground At Fruit Valley Park – Vancouver, WA
Pacific Northwest
Project Overview
A community-driven, inclusive playground designed to create a welcoming space for children of all abilities while celebrating the natural character of Fruit Valley Park.
Play Design Features
- Inclusive playground designed for all abilities
- Nature-inspired play elements and theme
- Water play and sensory experiences
- Spinning and movement-based play
- Fully fenced play environment with gates and clear visual cues
Project Information
The City of Vancouver with the Kuni Foundation brought an exciting new playground to the Fruit Valley Neighborhood in Vancouver WA with the community-inspired theme, “Play Like a Bird.” This concept, chosen by residents, informs the overall Natural Playground Design, with play elements that reference bird nesting habitats, the motion of flight, and the splashing of a bird bath. Key features include a life-sized nest, track rides (one with a with 5 point harness inclusive seat) that simulate flying, and water play basins that support interactive play.
The playground was designed as an inclusive playground that goes beyond ADA compliance, incorporating accessible surfacing and equipment along with a range of sensory-rich experiences. The climbing equipment features a transfer station that leads to a long. soft climbing belt feature. This increases physical access opportunities to the top of the climber and the slide. Bell-like musical instruments and water play provide opportunities for sound and tactile engagement. Spinning equipment that allows for wheeled divide access, supports vestibular movement and helps develop balance and coordination. An accessible play nest offers a quieter space for retreat, observation, and imaginative play, allowing users to engage at their own pace. Custom bird sculptures tie the theme to local species seen in the park.
Safety, clarity, and accessibility are reinforced through a fully enclosed layout and high-contrast safety surfacing around play equipment, providing clear visual cues throughout the site. Completed in collaboration with the OTAK design and engineering team, this nature inspired park playground design creates a cohesive nature play environment that supports a wide range of users and play levels.
