VÄXA
-Playground that sparks imagination
VÄXA-
Playground that sparks imagination
Växa transforms Plaza del Nord from a space once dominated by a single group into a place for everyone, with a focus on families and children. Instead of predefining a traditional playground, we introduce soft hills and geometric shapes that invite kids to create their own adventures. One moment, it is an ocean to cross, the next a castle to protect. Växa nurtures movement, creativity and turning play into an experience. Here, play isn’t limited by structure - only by imagination.
Groups of people dominated the plaza, creating less space for everyone to sit. The playground was on the side and rarely used.
We opened up the plaza with a better flow and placed the playground at the center, creating a more inviting and interactive space for everyone.
CONCEPT
Växa transforms Plaça del Nord into a framework for open play, led by imagination. Instead of fixed playground structures, the space is shaped by soft contours and abstract forms that invite children to create their own world. A hill can be a seat, a boundary or a game. The focus shifts from predefined function to free exploration. The design supports movement, improvisation and curiosity, making each visit a new experience.
At the same time, Växa doesn’t isolate or dominate the plaça. It integrates into the public space. The space remains shared, inviting interaction between generations.
CLIENT
In our project we chose to highlight families and children as the key users. In our observations there is a lackage of space for children. Our aim was to integrate elements that support children’s need for creativity. Rather than allowing the plaça to be dominated by a certain group, we wanted to make sure that children are valued, visible and included, without compromising the overall balance and openness of the space. .
Technical Plans
The new design opens up the plaza, creating a more welcoming and flexible space. By removing barriers and placing playful elements at the center, the layout encourages movement and interaction between people of all ages. The plaça can host different kinds of events and everyday activities, turning the plaza into a lively meeting point for the community.
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01 Bench
Vehicles drive at high speeds and too close to pedestrians, creating an unsafe environment, especially for children.
03 Playground
A hill that encourage playfulness and creativity that all ages can enjoy.
02 Pipe
A pipe molded in different heights. Kids can play by crawling under, hanging or climbing in free play.
04 Tile Bench
A tile bench that people can relax and enjoy a conversation in the shade.
Details
Details of the different layers of the playground and the opening of the tunnel.
Details of the different layers of the playground and the opening of the tunnel.
Ethylene Propylene Diene Monomer rubber
SBR
Tyrene-butadiene rubber
PEHL
Polyethylene
CONCRETE
Cast-in-place concrete
CONCRETE
HOW
Concrete is mixed on site in correct proportions using a continuous mixer.
PROS
Long lifespan, fire resistant, durability and a good structural base for other materials.
MAINTENANCE
Re-sealing every 3 years to prevent damage inspection of the playground should be every 5 years.
EDPM
HOW
Mixed on site with a polyurethane binder and spread evenly onto the top surface, by hand.
PROS
Weather resistant, impact absorbing, non toxic and made from recyclable materials. A seamless surface and customizable.
MAINTENANCE
Every year it is inspected and if 30% of the surface is worn out, it shall be resurfaced.
CONCRETE
SBR
HOW
Concrete is mixed on site in correct proportions using a continuous mixer.
PROS
Long lifespan, fire resistant, durability and a good structural base for other materials.
MAINTENANCE
Re-sealing every 3 years to prevent damage inspection of the playground should be every 5 years.
HOW
Applied with primer in between the concrete layer and top surface for adhesion. Curing time takes about 12-48 hours.
PROS
Impact absorbing, cost efficiency
and good for larger areas. Made from recycled materials and it is very durable.
MAINTENANCE
Inspection every two years, important that there is no damage, as it is a key element for preventing injuries.
EPDM
Manufacturing
Step 01
Step 02
Step 03
Step 04
Step 05
Step 06
Pavement of the plaça is removed according to correct measurements.
Concrete is quickly poured into the base, air pockets are removed by vibrations. Cure time is 28 days. Add the pipe base for later installment.
Tube is placed into position. Building a wooden mold for the hill structure.
Concrete is quickly poured into hills, air pockets are removed by vibrations. Cure time is 28 days.
SBR is applied with a primer and adhesion on top of the concrete hills. Spread evenly with a trowel. Dry-time, 24 h-48 hours.
EPDM is mixed with a polyurethane binder and is spread evenly onto the dried SBR. A protection against moisture.
Steel pipe
Step 01
Selected steel as the material according to requirements of the use.
Step 02
Step 03
The pipe goes through a bending machine for shaping. Before the metal is filled with sand to prevent damage. Hot bending the pipe into its shape.
Adding a color coat, to protect the pipe for oxidation.
Step 04
Transporting the object to location in one piece.
Step 05
Step 06
Install the pipe into place, bases have been installed during the concrete process.
Ensure that the pipe is successfully secure for the playground.
