Having been impressed by our ability to design a fun and challenging play environment for the Kurrajong Prep school play area in 2018, Barker College engaged Umbacoto design the special play area for the new junior school. The brief was challenging-what could be done with the undercroft of the overhead bridge area that would be inspiring and exciting for junior students? Our immediate idea was to suspend various types of elements from the ceiling of the bridge.We opted for transparent rope elements and nets that could provide lots of dynamic play opportunities, encourage interaction and provide hang out pods at different heights for seating in elevated positions.In addition, we included a vertical rope tunnel vortex to enable a flow directly from the top to the bottom of bridge. This offered a play journey in the limited space extending the ‘mileage’ students could run during their breaks, as well as a short cut from the bridge top to the ground floor.

The existing bare concrete wall has been visually transformed into a vibrant backdrop by mural artist Scott Nagy.

The successful result integrates a variety of bespoke vertical and horizontal elements providing physical challenges, visual stimulation and individual spaces where the students interact and enjoy themselves.

The Junior School staff were enthusiastic supporters throughout our consultations with them.We have received feedback from staff on how much the students love the space and how they enjoy playing together, testing themselves and interacting socially and while using spaces for studying and lunch breaks.