Research exploring the playground landscape in New York City to assess the current infrastructure available for children with disabilities.
Play is one of the most important things children can do.
This project draws inspiration from an interest in child psychology, and the potential of inclusive design s for children with a spectrum of abilities. When designing playground features, it's essential to consider the diverse needs of all children.
"Free and fearless fun" refers to the pleasure children experience in a built environment where they play without fear, freely expressing their abilities without facing judgment, exclusion, or discrimination. As children learn to interact, they grow accustomed to the idea that enjoyment can be shared freely, even though they may look, act, or play differently from one another. When play takes root in a community, it brings outsized benefits for children, from their well-being to safety and beyond. Whether through physical or social interactions, all children deserve to create fun memories and explore the dimensions of play that benefit the mind and body.
The aim of this research was to explore the playground landscape in New York and to assess the current infrastructure available for children with different abilities. The goal was to gather information that can help policymakers and planners identify where enhancements are needed. This study seeks to provide a clearer understanding of the current state of facilities for children in need, emphasizing the importance of catering to a diverse range of needs in public spaces.
Columbia GSAPP I Fall 2023 I Instructor: Jonathan Stiles I Tools: ArcGIS Pro