The municipality of Amsterdam Noord approached us with the request to add more play value to the Heggerankweg play area and to create more balance with the layout on the square. There were 4 seesaw springs, a swing and a basketball pole. The basketball pole was quite close to the seesaw feathers and posed potential dangers for small children. Quite a challenge, because the request arrived at the beginning of December and should ideally be ready for the holidays!
Two seesaws have been removed and the basketball pole has been moved to the other side of the square, leaving more space for sporting and playing children. A climbing clamber has been placed with a variety of play functions. Furthermore, a playhouse with seating where children can play various types of role plays. The green area is involved in the playground for children who want to hide and play among the greenery. In short: space has been made for all four game types: for rauwers, douwers, viewers and builders (existing green belt).
The neighborhood residents are involved in the project through active neighborhood participation. The municipality has been able to get enough space from various budgets to make this project possible. The plan was ready and delivered for Christmas. Children, from small to large, can play again to their heart’s content. And the great thing is: there was only 3 weeks between assignment and realization. Cooperation, decisiveness and flexibility are the driving forces behind this project.