Playground-E 2.0 – Playground for the current generation - Design Competition , Indien

 

UNI competitions - UNIEGIS NETWORK Private Limited, New Delhi

 

The concept of play for children was developed by Frederick Frodel, and since then playgrounds are a major part of our society. The first outdoor playspace was opened in 1821, for a gymnasium. It was inspired by Frodel‘s concept and was well-equipped with gymnastics equipment. This trend of gymnastics faded, and more child-specific outdoor play spaces were invented. Thus the first park playground was established in 1879 in Chicago. 

 

Playgrounds have been a vital part of our growing years. It was a place to freely be ourselves after school, after studies, or for an entire day. It offered a safe environment without constant scrutiny from parents. It‘s a place where long-term friendships manifested and the most undocumented moments were made. 

 

They not only contributed to providing us with a space to enjoy but also formed an open/green space in the urban fabric.

 

Although in today’s context they might be losing their relevance.

 

Today’s kids belong to the digital generation. They are growing up with easy access to digital information and communication technologies. It‘s more natural for them to engage with technology than any of the previous generations. Though the use of devices is creating a lack of physical activities.  An open playground provides children with physical activities. It also engages them with elements that result in the development of key cognitive, social, and physical skills. 

 

Moreover, in times of pandemic existing playgrounds remain isolated and kids are forced to a shut-in. It has suddenly increased screen time,  as even schools have to opt for online learning.  While digital learning has its pros, the boundary between play, study, and social time has blurred. In such scenarios where going outside is not feasible, parents have run out of options to imbibe physical activities in kids. 

 

 

 

In today‘s world, change is the only constant, as we move with the speed of technology everything‘s changing and traditional typologies are also adapting to this change. In retrospect, the typology of a playground hasn‘t changed much. Whereas the digital mediums to which kids are glued is adapting to their every user group.

 

Constant upgrades in digital devices are making them easier and handier to use. During this time of isolation, where major things like schooling, work, exercise and play are changing. Can we take the opportunity to change our playgrounds too? How can we make playgrounds more relevant in today‘s context? Can we integrate technology that kids are naturally attached to with playgrounds? Will it abide the much-needed physical activity in kids? 

 

 

 

 

Minimum eligible age for participation is 18 years.

There is no restriction to the degree or design disciplines to participate in the challenge.

Participation in the competition can happen in a team as well as an individual.

There is no restriction to the number of members who can participate in a team.

The challenge is open worldwide for anyone to participate.

 

21 February 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Regular registration ends

22 February 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Submission ends

09 March 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Shortlisted entries announced

15 March 2022, 4:00 PM GMT+01:00 – Jury evaluation starts

08 April 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Jury evaluation ends

09 April 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Public voting ends

21 April 2022, 5:00 PM GMT+02:00 – Result announcement