The design of multifunctional areas is important for good landscape design, that the whole family can enjoy the outdoor area around their home.
Open green areas and defined boundaries
Children need space to run, spin, and play. For that reason, having lush lawn areas can be a top priority. An adjacent garden could serve as a safe boundary to keep play localized, much like an elevated courtyard that involves a physical transition from playtime to time for sitting or eating.
For the garden concept, aged looking pavers in light and neutral colors can create defined lines around garden beds, such as the old-world style of Brussels Block Pavers and Brussels Dimensional Wall by Unilock. The surrounding gardens with cobblestone edges provide a visual line to the end-of-play areas and also help protect your gardens. Make sure all plants in your garden beds around play areas are child-safe and non-toxic, particularly inedible berries that children may mistake for a fruity snack.
A magical garden
A child’s best play experiences often come from their imagination, not from toys or special equipment. When designing a child-friendly garden, think of nooks and crannies that induce the imagination and encourage them to explore. Perhaps place a small stone fountain on the side of a hill, using a retaining wall with cobblestones reminiscent of ancient European gardens and castles, such as the rough wall. Winding, quirky paths between organically shaped gardens are another way to stimulate imaginative play, for children to imagine their own secret garden or hidden magical forest. Include a bench at the end of the road, to curl up with a book and exchange secrets with a friend. If the walkway ends in a wall, an integrated bench becomes a cozy place.
Retaining walls serve many purposes.
Around sloping gardens if the play area adjoins a hill, to help prevent children from climbing on delicate plants or falling down the slope. Minimizing traffic on the hill also helps protect the garden from erosion.
Short walls are a great option for creating a seating area around a yard or between a yard and a grassy play area, for children to rest between games, or for parents to sit and watch them while they play. The wall could mark a clear definition between spaces without blocking the view of the garden or lawn.