We’ve told you before about some of the creative uses for abandoned shipping containers – and we wouldn’t keep bringing it up if we didn’t think that design recycling is still essential. Also, we have never before found a project where the principles underlying sustainability have been so successfully achieved. Phooey Architects completed work on Skinners Playground, a backyard for children living in public housing in South Melbourne, Australia – and a low cost, environmentally sound, and socially responsible solution.
Setting design aside for a second, we need to acknowledge that the architects created a place to find a community support network; a place for children to learn and grow; a place that provides a place to escape; and a place where families know children are safe. The result is similar to the Danish concept of allowing children within a community to build their own play space. Although the children in South Melbourne did not actually build this playground, they will take an active role in how the activity center will develop and grow.
Phooey Architects - Children's Activity Center
