Stuart Park All Ages All Abilities
LOCATION
Wollongong, NSW
YEAR
2023
CLIENT
Wollongong City Council
Budget: 1.1 million
TEAM
Umbaco Landscape Architects | University of Wollongong Disability Research Network | Playground Project | | Illawarra Local Aboriginal Land Council | Coomaditchie United Aboriginal Corporation | Disability Trust and Aspect South Coast | Artwork by Denise Pepper | Photography by Andrew Vincent |
The Stuart Park All Ages All Abilities Project
The Stuart Park All Ages All Abilities Project is a new regional play space in the Illawarra Region focusing on older children and adults with a wide range of disabilities. Umbaco Landscape Architects, in collaboration with many stakeholders created an inclusive space where people can feel valued and welcome. In this park, people of all abilities can come together and express themselves, creating a true sense of community.
The initial catalyst for this project was the personal experience of Dr Shoshana Dreyfus caring for her son Bodhi, who was born with severe intellectual disability. Umbaco collaborated with the Playground Project established by Dr Dreyfus, the Disability Trust, the University of Wollongong Disability Research Network, and the local Dharrawal indigenous community. Umbaco Landscape Architects were engaged through a three year process to prepare a master plan and consequent detailed designs.
The design sought to create a place with a variety of experiential activities complemented by areas of quiet contemplation; a welcoming and accessible place for the whole community.
The design embodies dignified multilayered and multi-sensory play elements that invite people of all ages and all abilities to play together.
The site circulation was designed with a clear streamlined pathway network to reduce the stress of visual clutter. Access to the activities is wide enough for wheelchairs to pass or move side by side with visual clues from different textures, signage and colours for safe navigation. The outer pathway circuit gives access to seating and generous shelters for quiet refuge and rest.
