Deer Park Early Learning Centre
When this privately owned centre sought to move beyond standard play equipment, Great Spaces designed and delivered a more engaging, nature-based environment that supports creativity, movement, and development.
Brief
This privately owned childcare centre had recently completed a new facility but required outdoor spaces that went beyond the typical builder-delivered landscape. Standard inclusions – such as artificial turf, basic sandpits, and shade – lacked depth and engagement. The brief was to design and construct a more immersive, nature play environment, while also upgrading existing yards to create richer, more stimulating play experiences across the centre.
Design
The design introduced a stronger focus on play, challenge, and imagination:
- Nature play focus: Timber structures, balance elements, and natural materials create a more engaging and exploratory environment.
- Custom play structures: Bespoke play towers and climbing elements provide physical challenge and support motor skill development.
- Integrated play zones: Sandpits, bike tracks, and open play areas combine to offer varied and flexible play experiences.
- Progressive yard upgrades: Existing spaces were redesigned to increase engagement and better utilise available space.
- Child-led play: Environments encourage creativity, independence, and active exploration.
Construction
Great Spaces delivered both new and upgraded outdoor areas across the site. Custom play structures were constructed to provide a more cost-effective and tailored alternative to off-the-shelf equipment, while maintaining high safety and durability standards.
Natural materials were integrated throughout, with careful consideration given to layout, circulation, and supervision. Existing yards were reworked to improve usability and engagement, transforming previously basic spaces into dynamic play environments.
The impact was immediate. Educators and operators reported a noticeable uplift in how children interacted with the space, with increased activity, creativity, and enjoyment. The centre continues to invest in further upgrades, reinforcing the value of well-designed outdoor environments.
