MESA is working with the City of Denton to develop an all-inclusive, themed playground within the nearly 400-acre North Lakes Park in honor of Librada “Lily” Cantú. The new playground implements a ‘barrier-free’ design and feature areas of play with universal design features that cater to individuals of all ages and abilities, including those with physical and cognitive disabilities.
Lily’s middle name and her love for flowers inspired this bumble bee themed “Pollinator’s Patch” concept which integrates environmental education elements into a themed play experience. The different play zones, or “hives”, incorporate various play experiences including an active ‘worker bee’ hive, a collaborative play ‘social bee’ hive, an educational passive play hive, and a ‘young bee’ hive which encourages imaginative play. Lily’s love for flowers and her commitment to a better world for children are celebrated in this themed concept.
Unique to this project was our collaboration with community stakeholders including physical therapists, teachers, and caregivers who provided feedback regarding programming considerations and play equipment for individuals with varied abilities. MESA has partnered with a world leader in sensory processing therapy to provide design collaboration and peer-review of this destination playground.
*All images are for conceptual purposes only and do not necessarily depict the project as it may finally be developed. The design is subject to change.