MASSAMA PLAYGROUND, NOVEMBER 2018
MASSAMA, SIERRA LEONE
Project by Caukin studio / Build Length: 4 Weeks / Project Partners: The Kambia District Foundation / Project Leaders: Samantha Litherland and Harry Thorpe
International Participants: David Mahon, Patricia Ntagoma Cinama, Toyosi Kukoyi, Jonathan Mead, Adi Scott, Dan Jones, Jen and Simon David
Project by Caukin studio / Build Length: 4 Weeks / Project Partners: The Kambia District Foundation / Project Leaders: Samantha Litherland and Harry Thorpe
International Participants: David Mahon, Patricia Ntagoma Cinama, Toyosi Kukoyi, Jonathan Mead, Adi Scott, Dan Jones, Jen and Simon David
Playgrounds are spaces for children to dare, to explore, to challenge themselves and to enjoy their lively youth. This project is about creating a striking and clever playground design that will inspire children to play but it is also to inspire those around it - the adults - to see what can be achieved with teamwork and the tools and materials they have available to them. Moreover, it will hopefully act as a clear indicator and example of the importance of play and the difference it can make in a child’s growth and education.
The design consists of a series of prefabricated square frames, comprising two layers of local timber (Gmelina Arborea) that were tirelessly laminated together to create double strength frames. These square portals were then arranged to form a snaking extended ‘slinky’ that weaved its way between the existing palm trees, in the school fields, and up the deceptively steep sloping land. With some concrete ‘S’ bending strip foundation, for the timber footings and raised square portals to sit on, there is a nice contrast of heavy concrete and light timber gently resting above. Between all the timber structure is a range of, again locally sourced, play materials.
Photographs: Samantha Litherland and Adi Scott
Sustainable Development Goals Met:
Sustainable Development Goals Met: