Salvation Army College for Officer Training, Playground

Chicago, Illinois

Firm

Harding Partners

Client

Salvation Army

Area

20,500 sq.ft.

Total Cost

$3,200,000

Completion Date

01/2013

The growing enrollment of students with families at the College necessitated a playground to be designed in the open outdoor space vacated by a parking lot and tennis court. The new playground provides a safe and stimulating play environment for local children. The playground was sited adjacent to the campus daycare center across from a quiet residential neighborhood and away from a busy intersection.

The playground is a balance of passive and active recreation opportunities for children between the ages of two and 12. Moments of activity are fostered in a shallow splash pool, play structures, and butterfly garden providing the raw materials and environment needed for creative play. The perimeter fence is a playful juxtaposition of masonry and perforated aluminum panels that contain the play area while presenting a welcoming image to the neighborhood. The new Salvation Army Playground brings a thoughtful approach to play by supporting multiple forms of recreation with a delightful composition of natural and built elements.