Sights and sounds
As with any public facility, a visually striking splash pad can provide excitement and interest for users of all ages. Using a large, iconic water feature piece within the splash pad is important. Large buckets of water that anchor the splash pad add an element of attraction even when the facility is not in use. Just watching the water flow—even from a distance—adds to the excitement.
One of the more eye-catching options for splash pads are large rings that spray a mist. These are attractive and easily integrate into a sequencing design for inclusive play. Having water splash, cascade, and bubble creates a series of soothing sounds, which invariably enhances the ambience.
It is also important to remember splash pads serve more than mere water play areas.
“Offering lighting as one of the many features helps designers think outside the box. Of course, custom water and lighting elements create an exciting visual impact,” says Brewster.
By employing strategies to enhance the overall visual esthetics, a splash pad—even when closed down for the winter—can lend year-round appeal to a facility. Some clients, especially homeowners’ associations and residential developments are very interested in adding lighting to their splash pads and changing their colours several times a year. For example, red and green can be used around the winter holidays.
Choosing water feature products
When choosing inclusive play products from different partners, one must take into consideration everything from durability and ‘play value’ to products that provide a variety of experiences.
“As designers, we tend to evaluate an entire product line from a supplier to see if it offers a variety of inclusive play items,” says Brewster. “Designs are more cohesive if they include elements for everyone rather than having to piece together inclusive play features from various product lines, which can make those components look like an afterthought.”
When selecting a manufacturer, one must choose a partner that can provide a full product line that offers inclusive play water features. Many companies can customize these elements, too.
Conclusion
A play area can become a cherished gathering place for people of all abilities, ages, and backgrounds to relax and connect through the joy of water. Not only does the naturally inclusive landscape of a splash pad offer a fun adventure for a community, but also satisfies their unique physical and cognitive needs. A simple but powerful space, an inclusive aquatic facility offers a glimpse of the larger picture of universal well-being and connectivity.
Chris Thomas has 10 years of experience promoting the physical, mental, and social benefits of aquatic play. His background in marketing and communication design has allowed him to identify market needs, contribute to the aquatic community through product development to enhance the guest experience, and discover design strategies that move child development forward. Over the years, Thomas has contributed to industry publications and collaborated with consultants and end-users to bring their vision to life. He can be reached at chris.thomas@fountainpeople.com.
