EXPLORING NATURE THROUGH PLAY
30 Apr 2020
The natural bushland on the grounds of Thornleigh West Public School, Sydney, has become the site of a discovery nature playspace that has been specially designed and constructed by Timber Creations to encourage the kids to play within the heart of Australia's natural landscape.
When the design team from Timber Creations first visited the grounds for a design consultation, they were so excited by the possibilities of the space. The forest of trees is beautiful, but not often used. Timber Creations designed an amazing playspace that doesn’t detract from the natural features of the environment but enhances them, bringing together a sense of wonder and encouraging play. 
The various play elements were carefully considered and placed strategically to complement each other and create a balanced, aesthetically pleasing and usable playspace that can be enjoyed by a huge number of students at once. And, of course, is fun! 
Starting with an active play area with climbing, balancing and fitness challenges for Years 3-6, the Timber Creations team designed and installed a softfall mulch area within a sandstone and log retaining wall that blends seamlessly with the natural grounds. This area features monkey holds, climbing totems, wobbly balance pommels, shipping rope crossing, stilts and many different natural log balance elements.
Nestled among the trees is a more passive discovery playspace for all ages, featuring imaginative play opportunities. 
Students can gather leaves, bark and other natural materials to experiment with at the mud kitchen, then sell their creations from the shop cubby to customers who can dine at the mushroom table! 
Sail the seas as a lookout on the bow of a mighty ship while friends steer from the helm behind!
Tell an enchanting tale from the storytelling chair – or is it a throne from which to hear petitions from their subjects? 
Or take a drive in the little buggy car and camp out in a teepee!
There are also several play sculptures around the grounds for balancing, sitting and a friendly face.
With so many play opportunities the options are endless and the children will never run out of things to imagine and do. 
Contact Timber Creations to find out more about its bespoke nature playspaces.
