We had the distinct pleasure to interview award winning designer Cemer Playground Equipments about their original and creative Play Unit design work. Cemer Playground Equipments is an award-winning creative designer, that makes our world a better place with their original play unit works.
Cemer Playground Equipments ("CPE") answered Design Interview ("DI") questions about their award-winning work New York Play Unit . Interview questions prepared by Frank Scott.
CPE : The main principle behind our design, "New York," is to provide children with a playful and engaging environment inspired by the iconic imagery of New York City. The idea stemmed from creating a structure that not only offers physical challenges through climbing elements but also stimulates imaginative play with its thematic design.
CPE : Our main focus in designing this work was to blend the unique shape and colors of an apple, symbolizing New York City, with functional play elements that enhance children's physical and cognitive development. We aimed to achieve a design that encourages active play, improves motor skills, and fosters creativity through role-playing opportunities.
CPE : Our future plans for this award-winning design include exploring opportunities to partner with playground equipment distributors worldwide to bring the "New York Play Unit" to more parks, schools, and public spaces. We aim to expand its availability and impact by catering to diverse global markets.
CPE : The design process for this concept spanned approximately 12 months, from initial ideation and concept development to prototype testing and final adjustments based on user feedback and safety assessments.
CPE : We designed this concept based on our own inspiration to create a thematic play structure that pays homage to New York City's cultural significance, particularly its association with the Big Apple symbolism. This design was internally driven rather than commissioned, aiming to innovate within the playground equipment sector.
CPE : As Cemer Playground Equipments, we are manufacturing the design ourselves.
CPE : We chose to design this particular type of play unit to offer children a distinctive and memorable play experience inspired by one of the world's most recognizable cities. The apple shape, synonymous with New York, serves as a creative focal point that merges thematic design with functional play elements.
CPE : While the initial concept was developed internally, we consulted with structural engineers, material specialists, and playground safety experts to ensure the design's feasibility, safety compliance, and durability. Their input was invaluable in refining the technical aspects of the "New York Play Unit."
CPE : The target customers for this design include municipalities, schools, parks, and developers seeking to enhance their recreational offerings with a visually striking and engaging play structure. It caters primarily to children aged 5 and above, promoting active play and imaginative exploration.
CPE : What sets the "New York Play Unit" apart is its thematic integration of the Big Apple motif, combined with robust climbing and interactive play features. The use of polycarbonate panels with a New York silhouette adds a unique visual element while allowing natural light to filter through, enhancing the play experience.
CPE : The name "New York" was chosen to evoke the iconic imagery and symbolism associated with the city, particularly the concept of the Big Apple. It aims to resonate with both children and adults familiar with New York City's cultural identity.
CPE : We utilized a variety of design tools including CAD software for 3D modeling, structural analysis tools for safety assessments, and simulation software to test the structural integrity and durability of the materials used.
CPE : The most unique aspect of our design is the incorporation of a three-dimensional climbing net inside a spherical structure, mimicking the shape of an apple. This design feature not only challenges children physically but also encourages imaginative play within a thematic urban environment.
CPE : We collaborated extensively with our in-house design team, which includes engineers specializing in structural design, materials science experts, and playground safety consultants. Their technical expertise ensured that the "New York Play Unit" met stringent safety standards and design specifications.
CPE : Technology plays a critical role in enhancing the durability and safety of the "New York Play Unit." Advanced materials such as galvanized wires with patented tensioning systems, polycarbonate panels for transparency and impact resistance, and stainless steel components for structural support were integral to its construction.
CPE : Our design was influenced by extensive research into playground safety standards, child development principles, and urban design aesthetics. We conducted data-driven research to optimize the play experience, ensuring that each element promotes physical activity and cognitive development in children.
CPE : Some challenges we faced during the design and realization of our concept included integrating the complex three-dimensional climbing net within the spherical structure while maintaining safety and aesthetic integrity. Additionally, ensuring the apple-shaped cover was interchangeable and durable posed manufacturing challenges.
CPE : We decided to submit our design to international design competitions like the A' Design Awards to gain global recognition, showcase our innovative approach to playground design, and benchmark ourselves against industry peers on an international stage.
CPE : Through the process of designing the "New York Play Unit," we learned valuable lessons in material science, structural engineering, and user-centered design. We improved our capabilities in integrating thematic elements with functional play features, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and play value.
CPE : One additional point worth mentioning is our commitment to sustainability. We aim to explore eco-friendly materials and production processes in future iterations of this design, aligning with global trends towards environmental responsibility in manufacturing.
