LASN is a photographically oriented, professional journal featuring topics of concern and state-of-the-art projects designed or influenced by registered Landscape Architects.
Issue link: https://landscapearchitect.epubxp.com/i/274582
46 Landscape Architect and Specifier News (Continued on page 48) Turtle Back Zoo (Continued from page 44) Prehistoric Portal The playground facility offers a unique approach that creates excitement and interest from the get-go. The approach to the playground entrance is an accessible boardwalk that leads to a "prehistoric portal." Overhead is the 13-ft. outstretched wing spread of a pterodactyl. As kids and parents enter the portal they wander past the landscaped sitting area with custom benches and amenities; then, there before them, is the large skull and gapping jaws and sharp teeth of a carnivorous dinosaur resting on a pebble-strewn surface (buff colored poured-in-place rubberized surfacing). The kids immediately run over to examine the jaws and teeth, then venture to climb onto the back bones of the prehistoric beast. Treehouse The large centerpiece of the playground is the awesome custom prehistoric Tree 4 Life Treehouse, a glass-fiber reinforced concrete cave-themed structure with a double slide from PlayWorx, a theme-play division of GameTime. This is a challenging and engaging play structure for the 5-12 year olds. Archeological Dig To the immediate left of the entrance is a large rectangular archeological inspired "fossil dig" site that let's kids get the feeling for fossil exploration. A shaded fabric canopy allows the kids to keep cool while digging for hidden treasures. For those who don't want to get their hands dirty, there are two backhoes to help dig; one of them is wheelchair accessible. There is also a fossil dig table that is wheelchair accessible at the entrance to the playground. As with other well-designed playgrounds, some of the play structures are geared for the 2-5 year old set. Behind the dinosaur climber, for instance, is a little climbing/slide structure suited more for toddlers. The centerpiece of the playground is the prehistoric-themed "Tree 4 Life" Treehouse. This glass-fiber reinforced concrete cave structure with a double slide is from PlayWorx, a theme-play division of GameTime. 40-49.indd 46 2/27/14 4:04 PM