Client Overview
Coram's Fields is one of London's most cherished children's charities, located in the heart of Bloomsbury and directly opposite Great Ormond Street Hospital. Welcoming thousands of children and families every year, the charity is committed to enriching the lives of young people across the capital through outstanding play provision.
The Brief
As part of a continued investment in play facilities, eibe Play and Sport were appointed to design and deliver a dedicated Junior Play Zone — a space that would complement the wider site while establishing its own distinct identity, tailored specifically to younger children.
Our Approach
From the very beginning, children's voices were placed at the heart of the design process. Members of the Coram's Fields Kids Council and young people from Great Ormond Street Hospital's Young People's Forum were invited to review initial concepts and provide feedback on layout, play opportunities and the overall feel of the space. Their insights directly shaped the final design, ensuring the finished play area genuinely reflected the needs and aspirations of its future users.
The surrounding landscape and architecture also played a central role in the design development. Subtle references to the site's Georgian setting were woven into decorative play panel posts and bespoke detailing, while the layout was carefully considered to soften the formality of the surrounding urban environment. Key pieces of equipment were positioned at gentle angles to encourage movement, exploration and discovery throughout the space.
Working with the Landscape
Rather than imposing a rigid structure onto the site, the natural undulations of the existing topography were retained and enhanced — allowing the play area to feel established and organic within its setting. Natural Robinia timber, green-roofed features and HDPE panel details further strengthen the connection to the mature trees and green character that define Coram's Fields.
What We Delivered
The Junior Play Zone provides a rich variety of play experiences, including:
- Climbing and balancing structures suited to junior-aged children
- Sliding opportunities integrated into the landscape
- Social interaction spaces that encourage group play
- Imaginative play zones that spark creativity
- Sensory play elements for children of all abilities
- Inclusive access throughout, with carefully considered sightlines for parents and carers
Results
Building on the successful delivery of the nearby Witches Hat Tower in late 2024 and the site's existing adventure play facilities, the Junior Play Zone represents another significant milestone in the ongoing evolution of Coram's Fields. The result is a welcoming, engaging and inclusive play environment that supports child development, encourages exploration and reinforces the charity's longstanding commitment to the children and families of London.
