Our Design Process

Thoughtfully designed, Australian-made playgrounds for schools, councils and community spaces.

From Concept Design to Built Outcome

At Activity Playgrounds, our process is led by design. We develop playground concepts first, then work collaboratively to refine the design alongside pricing, ensuring the final outcome suits the site, the users and the budget.

Concept sketch of bird’s nest style playground nest swing showing structural frame, rope net seat and supporting posts

Understanding the Site and Brief

Every project begins with listening. We take the time to understand the site, its constraints and its opportunities.

  • Site conditions, layout and surrounding context

  • Age groups, access requirements and play priorities

  • Budget, staging and long-term use

  • School, council or community expectations

This early stage ensures the design responds to the space, not just the equipment.

Concept Design Development

Our in-house designers develop a concept design that responds to the brief and the site.

  • Play-led layouts focused on movement, challenge and flow

  • Age-appropriate and inclusive play planning

  • Materials, forms and colours suited to the environment

  • Designs developed to meet Australian Standards

The concept design establishes the overall direction and play intent for the project.

Concept Pricing and Review

Once the concept design is developed, we provide an indicative quote based on the proposed layout and equipment.

  • Clear scope aligned to the concept design

  • Transparent pricing

  • Opportunity to review options, priorities and adjustments

This allows informed decisions before the design is locked in.

Design Refinement and Finalisation

Following concept review, the design is refined and finalised.

  • Adjustments to suit budget, site or staging

  • Refinement of play elements and layout

  • Confirmation of finishes and details

This collaborative stage ensures the final design is practical, buildable and aligned with expectations.

Inclusive playground at Winton Reserve featuring carousel, swings, and climbing structures surrounded by native trees.

Access and Inclusive Play

Access and inclusion are considered as part of the overall design brief. Where required, layouts and play elements can be adapted to support mobility access, varied abilities and inclusive play outcomes.

These considerations are addressed early in the design process to ensure they are integrated naturally into the space.

Durability and Longevity

Our playgrounds are designed and manufactured for high-use Australian environments. Steel components are fabricated in-house using Australian-made materials, with finishes selected for strength, corrosion resistance and long-term performance.

Durability is built into the design from the outset, supporting lower maintenance and extended lifespan.

Custom playground installation in Orbost showing timber cladding towers connected by platforms, green spiral slide, low steps and climbing net on safety surfacing

Custom and Flexible Design

Because we design and manufacture in-house, we can adapt existing structures or develop custom solutions to suit specific sites and requirements. This flexibility allows us to respond to unique layouts, constraints and play objectives while maintaining quality and consistency.

Newbury Combination Unit at Templestowe Valley Primary School with bright slides and climbing elements.

Colours and Finishes

Colours and finishes are considered as part of the overall design response. Selections are made to suit the surrounding environment, usage requirements and long-term performance of the playground.

A wide range of finishes is available, allowing playgrounds to either stand out as a feature or sit more quietly within their setting, depending on the brief.