Mølholm Park, Vejle

The playground at Mølholmdammen draws inspiration from the area's distinctive cultural history and landscape qualities. The story of Mølholm Watermill has been translated into a contemporary play environment where architecture, play and storytelling come together, creating a clear connection between the playground and its surroundings.

The mill wheel is a central motif in the design, appearing as both a storytelling feature and an active element of play. In the sand play area, children can work together to transport sand up to a platform and then down to a large mill wheel, which is set in motion through play. In this way, the mechanics of the historic watermill become a physical and sensory experience, while the play also encourages collaboration, motor skills and tactile stimulation.

A larger mill wheel is integrated into the climbing structure and connected to a half-timbered house that references the area's historic architecture. Here, the site-specific references become an active part of the play as children move through, over and around the structure. Climbing, balancing and sliding create variety in movement while challenging children's balance and physical coordination.

The landscape surrounding Mølholmdammen has also been incorporated into the playground's story. The romantic garden and swan pond are interpreted through three swan sculptures positioned in harmony with the half-timbered houses and other play elements. The swans add a poetic and recognisable dimension to the area while also inspiring imagination, role play and new stories.

The result is a site-specific play environment where the history and character of the area serve not only as visual inspiration but are integrated into the play itself. The playground thus becomes a contemporary interpretation of the story of Mølholmdammen, experienced through movement, the senses and play.