Space is at a premium on this tight London site, with multiple fire exits, the lunch queue and other major routes through the courtyards.  vPPR created a series of landscape elements through the courtyards, including a bespoke canopy, complex play structure, stand-alone play elements and a series of planters and benches for calm play and fairy gardens.

Sustainability and ease of construction were key design drivers.  Both the canopy and tree-top run are made from simple Douglas Fir poles set into Roach stone feet.  The canopy uses Roach stone boulders instead of sinking foundations into the ground, thereby minimising the use of concrete.  The boulders can be used as seats or for play by the girls.  The tree-top run re-uses the existing foundations of the former canopy so that no concrete is necessary.  The roach stone contains many intriguing fossils that the girls can learn from.

• The ‘tree-top run’ comprises a net tunnel lifted above the lunch queue so that girls can look up while waiting to see their friends running above their heads and sliding down at the other end.
• The ‘nest’ is a large net hammock where girls can lie, read and gossip or use as a fort.
• The series of play structures, including monkey bars and log steps, creates an activity sequence through the space.
• New planters are either incorporated into benches or sunk to surface level, to help absorb water run-off.  Lush planting creates opportunities for fairy gardens and growing herbs, making for a beautiful, highly sensory setting.
• A large filigree timber canopy provides dappled shade in the summer and shelter from winter rain.

In collaboration with artist Charlotte Moore the girls and teacher in the school engaged with the design process by creating an individual ceramic tile by pressing flowers and other objects into clay moulds.  The resulting ceramic art piece will be mounted on the wall of the courtyard, on axis with the entrance gate.