It was a challenging journey, but recently campsite ‘t Geuldal in Meerssen (Netherlands) was able to open its brand-new natural play and experience garden. This fantastic end result is proof that perseverance, thinking in terms of possibilities and, above all, intensive cooperation, can work wonders when it comes to designing a new play environment.
In search of the best idea
Camping ‘t Geuldal’s dream of creating a new nature playground had existed for quite some time. After several talks with various landscape consultants, owner Raymond Vaessen still hadn’t decided.
To gather inspiration, he attended the 2022 Recreation Trade Fair in Hardenberg; a grand event where owners of campsites and other recreational facilities can get inspired by a plethora of ideas. At the fair, Remco van de Berg, one of our recreation consultants, was on hand. Engaging in conversation with Raymond, he promptly showcased some designs of natural playgrounds, expertly drawn by our team of landscape designers. This turned out to be exactly what Raymond was looking for: a natural setting with plenty of play opportunities for children.
To get a comprehensive understanding of the location and possibilities for Camping ‘t Geuldal, Remco travelled to beautiful Limburg region. There he conducted an extensive site check to uncover all of the client’s wishes. It quickly became apparent that there were more possibilities than the owners had initially imagined. Following Remco’s advice, they arrived at a new layout, full of natural elements that, that collectively enhance the entire area.
Landscape design
The play and exercise landscape are roughly divided into three areas. Spread over a 1-hectare terrain will be a petting zoo, an experience garden and a water playground. These areas are connected by natural-looking paths, seamlessly blending adventure, nature and education.
By using playground equipment made of FSC®-certified Robinia wood, the playground retains its natural allure. Every aspect of the play and experience garden has been designed with the specific needs and preferences of the 4 different types of players in mind. This ensures that this unique landscape is both a fantastic play area and an appealing outdoor space where guests of Camping ‘t Geuldal enjoy spending time.
Planting
For the owners of Camping ‘t Geuldal, it was vital to create a green oasis that blends perfectly with the natural surroundings. They were also keen to promote the natural habitat of local wildlife. We achieved this by carefully considering the existing animals and their preferences for planting.
We introduced fragrant, colourful and edible plants, ensuring the playground is a beautiful green oasis from early spring to late autumn. Adjacent to this new play and experience garden, the campsite has situated some unique camping spots. Camping guests thus have a front-row seat, from where they can enjoy their children’s fun at play, while also relaxing amid green surroundings.
Permit application
The very first design was immediately well received; after some fine-tuning, the final design was approved and camping ‘t Geuldal was able to start applying for the permits with the municipality. For such a project, it was also necessary to submit an application to the province. Because of the vulnerability of the surrounding nature reserve, this resulted in a number of additional questions and comments.
Together with the campsite owners, we processed these as best we could, after which this application was also approved.
Thus, with some delay, we were able to commence the construction of this new natural play paradise.
Cost-Saving Measures
Due to this delay, we encountered a cost increase, primarily due to rising purchase prices for our materials, such as wood.
To still be able to realise this unique project without compromising the design, costs savings had to be made. All parties involved sat down together and took a critical look at the budget for this project. The greatest cost savings could be made by carrying out some of the work in-house. As a result, the team at ‘t Geuldal also rolled up their sleeves. They laid the pathways, planted the greenery, and installed the water management system themselves.
Quote from Remco: “Thanks to Raymond’s love and dedication and the fantastic efforts of the Camping ‘t Geuldal team, we were able to bring this project to such a successful conclusion. Without them, we would have been much longer at it, and furthermore, the price tag for the campsite would have been considerably higher.”
Quote from Raymond: “It has turned out exactly as seen in the initial design video.”