The Urban Jungle is a landmark scheme that has become highly influential in school ground design. Working with a client group of children from primary six, this was the first natural playground to be delivered in an urban primary school in Scotland.

The design was inspired by a series of visits to special places and play areas across the central belt, including The Hidden Gardens, and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park.

Our design used the excavated materials from the build of the new school to create a series of sculpted mounds and uses woodlands to create spaces for dens, hide and climb. It incorporates artworks by the children, play trees, bridges and shelters.

Client
  • Merrylee Primary School Eco Committee
  • Glasgow City Council
  • The Forestry Commission

This playground also supports Scottish Government biodiversity and climate change policy, and fulfils the requirements of the Scottish Curriculum for Excellence (Learning Outdoors) and the Care Commission’s ‘Space To Grow’ guidance.

The Urban Jungle combines active, imaginative and social play. It is used as a learning and teaching resource – a giant outdoor classroom.