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09-08-26 | Feature
In the fall of 2018, a collaborative studio class project (LAND 211) was initiated, where 27 undergraduate students created their design visions for the space. These designs were then refined into one design by an MLA student before being sent to a professional consultant for final design development and implementation. Construction was completed in 2021 with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening in September.
The design program focused on inclusive design in a natural setting where children can learn about the natural world around them through play and active gardening activities. The design respected the existing landform and trees to immerse the children in nature, creating an environment for active and passive learning. At the entry, the learning and play spaces begin with a central shaded and hard surface learning and gathering area, then are divided into 3 age-appropriate focus areas for babies and crawlers, toddlers, and preschool children. The preschool area is the dominant space with an extensive deck and boardwalk system connecting integrated play areas, including sand play, swings, climbing and sliding, gathering, playhouses, and a shady woods. Activities include outdoor classroom activities, art projects, gardening, and free undirected play. The outdoor learning and play area is certified by Nature Explore Classroom.
To see more Playgrounds projects, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/landscape-articles/lasns-commercial-retail-development#article1
For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php
The Becky Gates Children's Center Nature Playground
College Station, Texas
The Becky Gates Children's Center Nature Playground, serving 168 children, opened at Texas A&M University in September 2021. The redesign project was a collaboration between the University Administration and the Department of Landscape Architecture and Urban Planning faculty and students.
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The Playgrounds Issue of Landscape Architect and Specifier News saw many firms submit their projects for feature consideration. The Becky Gates Children's Center Nature Playground is one of several great projects we are excited to showcase on LandscapeArchitect.com.
In the fall of 2018, a collaborative studio class project (LAND 211) was initiated, where 27 undergraduate students created their design visions for the space. These designs were then refined into one design by an MLA student before being sent to a professional consultant for final design development and implementation. Construction was completed in 2021 with a ribbon-cutting and grand opening in September.
The design program focused on inclusive design in a natural setting where children can learn about the natural world around them through play and active gardening activities. The design respected the existing landform and trees to immerse the children in nature, creating an environment for active and passive learning. At the entry, the learning and play spaces begin with a central shaded and hard surface learning and gathering area, then are divided into 3 age-appropriate focus areas for babies and crawlers, toddlers, and preschool children. The preschool area is the dominant space with an extensive deck and boardwalk system connecting integrated play areas, including sand play, swings, climbing and sliding, gathering, playhouses, and a shady woods. Activities include outdoor classroom activities, art projects, gardening, and free undirected play. The outdoor learning and play area is certified by Nature Explore Classroom.
To see more Playgrounds projects, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/landscape-articles/lasns-commercial-retail-development#article1
For more information about submitting a project, go to: https://landscapearchitect.com/research/editorial/editorial-submissions.php
Filed Under: SEPTEMBER 2026, PLAYGROUNDS, BECKY GATES CHILDREN?EUR(TM)S CENTER NATURE PLAYGROUND, TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY, COLLEGE STATION, TEXAS, DEPARTMENT OF LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE AND URBAN PLANNING, LASN
