Harestad school - a case study with an urban design

In collaboration with the contractor Bjelland, this outdoor space and playground were built and handed over to Harestad school in Norway in 2016.

The school wanted to introduce more opportunities play and movement, especially for the older pupils. The idea was to get the pupils outside, to move and be active, and it had to be fun. The school asked us to deliver three extra tall swings, four basketball hoops on steel posts and placed in a large multi-court as well as two green PingOut table tennis tables. Perfect for young teens.

The two table tennis tables have an urban design that fits in well with the beautiful and organic Norwegian rocks and the new hang-out outdoor furniture in wood. The hard metal plays well with the soft wood, and gives an open and aesthetic feel. Over time, the wood has patinated to a warm grey colour.
The simple outdoor furniture also frames the plant environments, which help create atmosphere and learning opportunities in the outdoor area. Maybe plants can be used actively in lessons? For example, children can observe whether plants and flowers attract insects, and they can follow the change of seasons and the significance of the activities of the insects.

This case study will inspire the choice of urban play equipment and furniture and the easy, transparent design solution.