5 EARTHSCAPE PROJECTS THAT PROVE NATURAL PLAYGROUNDS CAN BE BEAUTIFUL, DURABLE AND COMPLIANT

Pennant Park, Utah 

Earthscape, now available in Australia through Urban Play, is leading a renaissance in custom playground design. With natural materials, sustainable construction, and a deep commitment to storytelling, their bespoke timber play sculptures are reshaping how public realm play is experienced.

Here are five standout projects that show just how beautiful, functional, and future-ready natural playgrounds can be.

1. Pennant Park, Utah | Seamlessly Blending With the Landscape

Designed to disappear into its natural surroundings, Pennant Park exemplifies how play can become part of the landscape. Ribbon-like timber forms flow across the site, inviting children to climb, balance, and explore from one end to the other. Varying heights, levels of transparency, and play difficulty create a diverse range of opportunities and challenges, while natural wood finishes provide a timeless appeal and a muted palette that complements rather than competes with the setting.

2. Moku-Yama, Tokyo | Where Architecture Meets Art and Play

Collaborating with renowned architect Kengo Kuma, Earthscape’s Moku-Yama (Wood Mountain) redefines the boundary between sculpture and playspace. This bold wooden landscape offers endless climbing routes and sensory experiences, made even more special through the warm tactility of timber.

3. Melanie Dressel Park, Tacoma | Towering Natural Play

Anchored by a dramatic round timber tower connected by a 50-foot bridge, this project is proof that wood doesn’t limit ambition. Supported by steel reinforcements for structural integrity, the tower complies with Playground standards while delivering a bold, neutral landmark that encourages vertical exploration and panoramic views.

4. Presidio Tunnel Tops, San Francisco | Natural, Non-Prescribed Play

This nationally celebrated nature play destination in the heart of San Francisco embodies the principles of non-prescribed, open-ended play. Timber steppers, carved logs, and custom climbing elements immerse children in natural textures and forms—designed to evolve with the landscape over time.

5. Joe Louis Greenway, Detroit | Sculptural Play With Meaning

Set within Detroit’s green infrastructure initiative, this Unity Tower is a sculptural centrepiece with cultural significance. Made from sustainably sourced wood and reinforced for durability, it invites social gathering and intergenerational engagement while remaining sensitive to its urban context.

Why Choose Timber?

Earthscape’s use of timber is backed by research and proven across global climates. Key advantages include:

• Sustainability Sourced from well-managed forests, Earthscape timber stores carbon, lowers emissions, and uses FSC-certified or responsibly managed species to create playgrounds that benefit both people and planet.
• Cooler Surfaces Timber’s natural insulation keeps surfaces comfortably temperate, even on hot days, unlike other materials.
• Engineered for Strength High-quality timber species are paired with precision engineering and durable construction methods to meet or exceed Australian safety standards, delivering structures that are both safe and built to last.
• Long-Lasting Confidence Timber offers durability comparable to metal and plastic, with 20-year warranty options for lasting peace of mind.
• Australia-Ready Materials Timber like Accoya are already council-approved, featuring in high-profile projects such as the Noosa Boardwalk in Queensland.

Creating Places That Belong

Urban Play believes playgrounds should enhance the landscape, not compete with it. Earthscape’s natural designs give councils and designers the opportunity to create something timeless, site-responsive and built to endure.

Let’s bring more beauty to the landscape. Speak with a UP Play Consultant to explore timber options, including locally sourced species, and elevate your next project.