Splash pads are standard commercial playground equipment to include in your design and attract more visitors. Proper planning and installation can save you time and money, including operational costs, maintenance, and future expansions.
Whether adding a splash pad to an existing playground or installing it as a standalone solution, you have a lot to consider. Park N Play Design can help you plan and install properly engineered splash pads that work for diverse groups. Here are four things to consider:
1. Who Will Use the Splash Pad?
Splash pads are top attractions for toddlers and preteens, but also entertain teens and adults. When designing a splash pad, you shouldn't assume that only kids will use the amenity. Consider how adults can enjoy the experience. The goal is to make the experience fun and memorable for everyone who visits the playground. Optimize the amenity for kids and teens, but make sure that the design accommodates everyone.
2. Water Source and Use
Splash pads require water, so you should determine a good source and how it'll be used.
Some cities require treatment and reuse, while others allow you to direct the water to stormwater treatment systems. You can treat and reuse water at the expense of maintenance and recirculation costs or you can use splash pad water to waste but will spend more on a fresh supply. Here are some questions to consider about water sources and usage:
• Does the water require regular testing?
• Are pets allowed in the splash pad?
• How does winterization affect the amenity?
• Will the water be controlled by users?
• Do you need motion sensor automation or a push button?
• Will the amenity constantly run like a water fountain?
3. Light, Sound and interactivity
The simple splash pad design is classic, but you can elevate it using light, sound, and interactive experiences. Colored LED lights can enhance aesthetics and create a fun nighttime ambiance. The lights can be playful with different effects triggered by water movement or constant. Sound is another way to improve the splash pad's theme and change with water movement. You can let users control water movements and effects timing to increase engagement levels.
4. Sun Protection and Shades
Adding shades and sun protection to the splash pad design can verify usability during the hottest months. Playground equipment designers can choose locations with existing trees and buildings offering shades. You can plant trees or erect a shade structure for use during the hottest hour of the day. Shades give users somewhere to rest before resuming their fun adventure, besides accommodating visitors who don’t intend to get wet.
Trusted Commercial Playground Equipment Designers
Designing commercial playground equipment comes with various other considerations, including permits & zoning, space & parking, sidewalks, bathrooms, and more. Location and utilities remain the most significant concerns, and each amenity has unique needs. You should review the budget and customization options (when purchasing pre-made splash pads).
The goal is to design and install the most suitable amenity for your playground. At Park N Play Design, we provide a full-suite playground and park equipment. We can design and install the equipment and offer lengthy warranties and labor guarantees. Our team is passionate about providing premium quality equipment and services to help you maintain a safe and exciting playground.
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