About the Project and the Process This project was developed as a public play space with a strong visual theme, practical accessibility, and a broad multi-age programme. Spring playgrounds worked for a municipal authority together with the development contractor, creating a play environment that could serve children, families, and visitors in a public neighbourhood setting. The balloon concept gives the playground an uplifting, easily recognisable identity. At the same time, the Golden Train adds a second layer of storytelling and movement, with a design that invites children to connect with the space at ground level. The result is an inclusive playground solution for municipalities, planners, and landscape architects that brings together accessibility, theme, and varied play value.
Inclusive Hot Air Balloon Playground with the Golden Train
Spring playgrounds created a large inclusive playground built around a hot air balloon concept and a distinctive Golden Train feature.
The central play structure was designed so that wheelchair users can access and use the full first level, making inclusion part of the main playground experience.
The site also includes an accessible carousel, parent-child swing, and additional play elements for different ages and family use.
Age Range
0-99Users
150Field
Playground
About the Project and the Process
Highlights of the Project
A key feature of the project is the accessible first level of the main hot air balloon structure, planned for wheelchair access as part of the central play zone.
This allows inclusive use to be integrated into the heart of the playground.
The balloon structure includes colourful polycarbonate, adding transparency, colour, and a light visual quality to the design. The Golden Train is another important feature: this was its first execution, with a retro design approach and careful attention to both the track and the locomotive.
The project brief focused on creating an accessible public playground with a strong solution for wheelchair users, a multi-age play environment, and a clear hot air balloon theme.
The client also wanted the Golden Train to receive a prominent role in the layout, while the playground would remain suitable for family use, including parent-child play elements.
In planning the playground, Spring playgrounds focused on the relationship between the main balloon structure, the Golden Train, the accessible carousel, and the swing area.
The first level of the central structure was planned for practical wheelchair access, supporting participation within the main play experience.
The playground’s design concept is led by the image of hot air balloons, creating a bright and memorable theme for the public space.
Colourful polycarbonate was used within the main structure to support the playful character of the balloons and strengthen their visual impact.
The Golden Train brings a contrasting but complementary design language.
Its retro style, track emphasis, and locomotive detailing add a story-based element to the playground.
The combination of a tall, iconic balloon structure with a ground-level train feature creates a varied visual experience while keeping the design clear, accessible, and suitable for public use.
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