AN ENRICHING EXPERIENCE

With an exceptional finned design and vibrant red visage, this adventure playspace is a standout in the community.

Currently the largest adventure playground in Newcastle, Richley Reserve all-abilities playspace is a Newcastle City Council project designed by Moir Landscape Architects, constructed by Daracon Group and equipped by Kaebel Leisure.

Completed in late-2018 as part of a $2.5 million public space upgrade for the region, Richley Reserve now boasts new pedestrian and scooter pathways, picnic shelters, barbecue areas and landscaped greenspace, all connected to the sizeable playground.

Surrounded by natural bushland, the playspace features a number of tactile natural elements like timber, stone and sand in the form of retaining walls, stepping stones and climbing logs that encourage self-directed play. The nature-based play challenges presented by this environment helps kids of all ages to connect with the natural world and build their confidence through fun exploration.

But what really grabs the imaginations of the little explorers that venture into the area is the multidirectional play structure that sits at the heart of the playspace.

The structure is based on a conceptual design completed by Moir Landscape Architects and mimics the iconic Newcastle City Council administrative building; the Roundhouse, as it is affectionately known. Like the Roundhouse, which is circular in profile and wears a series of fins that dominate its external facade, the three-tiered play structure erected within Richley Reserve is a fantastical architectural arrangement that commands attention.

The finned design generates engaging optics while allowing glimpses of the surrounding bushland between the blades, helping it to at once blend with the landscape and project its own vibrant identity. Rope courses, bridges, tunnels, swings and slides connect the three pods in a configuration that offers something to everyone from toddlers to teens. Wheelchair access to the playground means those with mobility challenges can also get in there and engage with their peers, particularly on the purpose-built all-abilities carousel.

Committed to a successful outcome for this unique project, Kaebel Leisure worked collaboratively with the landscape architects, steel fabricators and contractor to ensure the collective vision for an exciting, safe and functional playspace was achieved. #missionaccomplished

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PROJECT PARTICULARS
Client Newcastle City Council
Location Newcastle, NSW
Landscape Architect Moir Landscape Architects
Principal Contractor Daracon
Structural Fabrication Studio 2
Play Equipment Kaebel Leisure