Whimsy and Wonder | Inclusive Indoor Playground Design
Ankeny, IA
Whimsy and Wonder: Inclusive Indoor Playground Design for All Ages
Whimsy and Wonder was created around a simple ambition: to bring together a rich variety of play experiences in one cohesive environment, where children of all ages can explore, imagine and play in ways that work for them.
Project overview
Sector: Commercial Play Space
Location: Ankeny, Iowa
Project Type: Indoor Playground
Services: Consultancy, Design, Manufacture, Installation
Project Size: 304m²
Age Range: 0–8 years
The Brief
The brief was to create a whimsical play environment where children could experience physical and imaginative play within one cohesive setting.
A key consideration was to make the space neurodivergent-considerate, providing a variety of play experiences while remaining mindful of sensory stimulation. The environment needed to cater for children aged 0–8, with dedicated areas for different age groups and opportunities for both active and quieter play.
It was equally important to create a welcoming space where caregivers could comfortably share the experience, interact with their children and become part of the play.
Our Approach
With a large footprint and a defined budget to consider, the design focused on making the most of the available space. We divided the environment into clearly defined play zones, each offering different activities and experiences suited to the age groups the client wanted to accommodate.
To maintain a strong sense of visual continuity, bespoke whimsical tree features were incorporated throughout the design, creating a consistent theme that connected the individual zones.
Organic, flowing lines helped soften the boundaries between areas, allowing each zone to have its own identity without making the overall space feel fragmented. Low-level foam walls provided natural divisions between play areas while doubling as seating for caregivers, encouraging interaction and shared experiences.
Colour and material selection played an important role in shaping the environment. A harmonious palette of muted, calming tones was used throughout, complemented by natural wood finishes. This created an engaging and imaginative setting while remaining mindful of sensory stimulation.
A dedicated sensory room was also incorporated into the design, extending the inclusive approach beyond the main play environment. Individually controlled lighting features give the client flexibility to tailor the atmosphere and sensory experience to different needs, providing a quieter, more adaptable space within the wider facility.
Standout Play Features
Several bespoke elements bring character and individuality to the environment, while supporting the wider design concept.
- Whimsical bespoke trees: Architectural play features that establish the theme and provide a consistent visual connection between zones.
- Ambient lighting: Integrated into the tree features to introduce warmth and atmosphere.
- Sensory clouds: Decorative features that contribute to the imaginative environment.
- Dedicated sensory room: An adaptable space with individually controlled lighting, allowing the client to respond to different sensory preferences.
- Defined play zones: Carefully planned areas for babies, toddlers and older children, with opportunities for different types of play.
The Result
The finished environment brings together a variety of play experiences within one cohesive, inclusive setting for children aged 0–8.
Dedicated zones provide age-appropriate opportunities for babies, toddlers and older children, while the overall design maintains a consistent visual identity and a considered approach to sensory stimulation.
The combination of active, physical play, imaginative features, quieter spaces and a dedicated sensory room creates a balanced environment that caters for a broad range of needs and preferences.
Caregivers are also encouraged to be part of the experience, with thoughtfully positioned seating and an open layout that supports interaction between children and adults.
Bringing Inclusive Play and Imaginative Design Together
What makes this project particularly special is the way so many different types of play have been brought together within one environment, without compromising on the overall design.
It demonstrates that creating a space that is mindful of different sensory needs does not mean sacrificing creativity, imagination or fun.
Through considered zoning, carefully selected materials and bespoke design features, the result is an engaging play environment that offers something for every age group, while providing the flexibility and balance needed to support different ways of playing.
Planning an indoor play environment that caters for different ages, abilities and sensory needs?
Talk to our team about developing a bespoke play space around your brief.
Get in Touch
Contact our dedicated team today to discuss your ideas with us.