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- Brief: Concept for Play and Skate Park in Ballyfermot through an innovative and collaborative People First Design Process and international design competition co-funded by the Matheson Foundation and Dublin City Council.. Project description: Le Fanu “Shooting Star” “Stars can only be found high in the sky” - said a wise man sitting on a meteorite. Architecture is a constant dialogue, an argument and an exchange of ideas. An architect is expected to form an opinion, pitch their ideas and deliver the vision. They are expected to talk and lead a project. Community–led project architect understand the community's needs and expectations, and is challenged to create a dream space for community to flourish its potential. The concept for the new play park adopts the fairytale of the “shooting star landing place" in order to create a visionary and engaging community space. The “meteorite” ground will create a strong community landmark, a unique feature associated with the Le Fanu Park and its local community. The proposed futuristic space creates a ground for children's imagination and creativity to be tested and flourished. The idea, as well as the design, is universal, accessible and acceptable for users of any age. It promotes a creative use of the space by all users making the space suitable for free play, skate /BMX, natural play, meditation as well as performance. The main elements of the park: the skate and play ground as well as the sensory / art garden have been located in the northern part of the selected site. The remaining part has been assigned for free natural play and football field. The skate park has been located below the ground, to limit the noise for local residents and other park users, as well as to take advantage of the natural ground formation to form an all around viewing platform. It will have a flat access at the northern corner, however gradually changing the difficulty of the shape catering for various level of skating skills and giving an opportunity for skill development. The play ground meteorite is raised to capture more sunshine and create a viewing point. Reaching the top would be an ultimate target for young players. The shape is surrounded by plenty of play elements which cater for different levels of climbing skills and techniques. Once at the top, users will be rewarded with an opportunity to slide down 'the meteorite' on one of a few different slides type. The "meteorite impact" surrounding ground will include a relaxation path, covered meeting spaces “under the clouds”, along side a sensory garden and a space for painting and small exhibitions. It will also have a space for the youngest to play on see-saws and swings. That space will provide privacy for meditation while also allow to keep a visual contact with the main play ground space. The design incorporates the principle of well-being and safety for all users. It encourages the notion of exercise for all, without age limits and will have a positive impact on mental health. The proposed concept incorporates the best balance of sustainable and environmentally friendly design with durability and permanency in mind. The design incorporates the use of sustainable materials like: green concrete and natural rubber floor, passive design direction like taking advantage of the natural ground shape, sun orientation, solar lighting solutions and more. Le Fanu “Shooting Star” play park might be the worst kept secret in Dublin West! Competiton website in here...
- Project : The Play Park, Ballyfermot
- Location : Dublin Date : February 2016 Status : Concept / 3rd place