The 'Lupacova' Playground, Prague 3

The playground, located on sloped terrain, was nearing the end of its lifecycle, with one of the primary issues being sand spilling from the playground onto the adjacent path. The core idea of the new design was to create three height-separated terraces, allowing for better adaptation to the terrain and preventing sand from spilling. The terraces were divided using oak beams, which serve both as stairs and seating areas.

Thanks to a community consultation organized by the Municipal District of Prague 3 before the design phase, we received plenty of valuable input on how to improve the playground. A dedicated zone for the youngest children was created on the lowest terrace, where a wood chip surface was used. New play elements for small children were placed on the second terrace, including a playhouse, a four-seat spring rocker, sand sifters, and a slide structure.

In the playground area, we designed a small grassy hill with two multi-stem maples planted on it. These trees will provide much-needed shade in the future and help further divide the playground space. An additional tree was planted along the southern boundary to provide shade for the highest terrace. Existing trees, which already offer shade in some areas, were retained as they create a natural backdrop and screen the surrounding tall buildings.

The entire playground is enclosed by a new larch timber fence. For seating options, we incorporated a variety of styles, including traditional benches, seating stairs, oak logs near the grassy hill, and a custom-designed bench—a large wooden deck that also serves as part of the fencing.

The division into three terraces also allowed us to separate the playground by age groups. The highest terrace retains the original equipment for older children. As we move lower, features for younger children are added, and the lowest terrace is primarily a quiet zone intended for parents to sit and relax.

Shortly after opening, the playground was filled with children and parents, and we believe they will fully enjoy it.