Built by kids for kids

The Kolle 37 adventure playground in Berlin offers an opportunity for children to take a hands-on approach to learning and play, by building their own structures (multi level cubbies, shelters and towers), cooking over campfires, playing with sand, dirt and water as well as tending to their own gardens. There is some limited supervision by staff on-site, but the children are ultimately able to test and explore their own creations - assessing for risks and safety. The children are able to learn valuable skills within an environment that they may not have access to otherwise - teamwork, trust, responsibility and respect for one another.

Kolle 37 is a rare example of a space where children are permitted to construct their own play spaces - constantly adjusting and changing their creations until they feel safe. Not only does this break down the fundamental ideas behind formal playground designs by adult professionals, but it allows the children to develop their own realm of adventure and discovery.

It makes me wonder if we are, as design professionals, 'over designing' children's play spaces and the role that children can potentially play in shaping landscapes - an involvement that I believe would reinforce their ownership of play spaces to create richer and more appropriate opportunities for play and discovery.

Photo from Public Workshop.