Family-Friendly Backyard

In tailoring a garden for a family with children, the requirements often span a broad spectrum: from a sandbox for the little ones to swings, trampolines, and wide-open spaces for energetic play. When balancing limited space with an extensive array of wishes, the functional needs for children's activities often supersede aesthetic desires. Consequently, the garden might lean more towards a playground with prominent features like swing sets and trampolines, rather than being a traditional garden space. However, the dream of a green, serene oasis need not be compromised for play structures. With strategic and creative planning, it's entirely feasible to cultivate a garden that is both a fun-filled haven for kids and a visually pleasing, functional space for adults.

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In the design, a key emphasis was placed on harmoniously merging children's play areas with the garden, resulting in versatile, multi-use structures. Integrating play elements such as swings and climbing frames into a pergola design ensures they don't appear as stark, plastic features but rather as cohesive parts of the garden's overall ambiance. This pergola backbone not only provides perfect anchor points for play equipment but also enhances the garden's aesthetic. Embedded LED strip lighting within the pergola casts a warm, inviting glow across the garden in the evenings, transforming the outdoor area into a charming and comfortable space even after the sun has set.

In this garden design, various activity zones are smartly delineated using permanent benches and wall structures, which intriguingly double as creative play elements for children. The trampoline is artfully assimilated into the layout, designed to be unobtrusive yet functional. Conveniently located adjacent to the terrace, the in-ground trampoline allows for easy, clean access. The plants encircling the trampoline not only ensure safety but also subtly blend it into the garden’s aesthetic. Since trampolines can often dominate both the size and appearance of a garden, it's prudent in the design process to select a trampoline that is proportionate to both the number of users and the garden's dimensions, achieving a harmonious and attractive outdoor space.

The garden was transformed into a playful and engaging space by designing diverse, winding pathways throughout, enticing children with adventurous routes for running and imaginative play. Paths adorned with stepping stones, set amidst a patchwork of low-lying ground covers and aromatic herbs, encourage creative play and lively exploration. The blend of different materials and textures enriches this playful setting: the cool, smooth concrete contrasts with the warm, yielding texture of wooden decks. On the sides of these pathways, undulating grasses and interspersed ground cover plants gently brush against the feet, adding a tactile and whimsical element to every step taken in the garden.

To ensure the garden serves the daily needs of a family with children, the layout was thoughtfully designed, prioritizing smooth functionality between play and relaxation areas. The placement of lounging spots provides a clear view of children at play, offering adults a serene space to unwind with a coffee in the warm afternoon sun. This thoughtful arrangement makes the garden an enjoyable retreat for all ages, balancing playfulness with relaxation.

  • Design Project

    Residential Garden, The Netherlands

  • Size of the Design Area

    Approx.500m2

  • Special features

    Functionality of Outdoor Spaces, Sensory Environment, Wishes of a Family with Children

  • Designed by

    Suvi Tuokko-Harmoinen, 2021