Parc del Poblenou

This commission is part of the Ajuntament de Barcelona’s “Ciutat Jugable” initiative, which promotes more inclusive, outdoor play across the city. The site, located in Parc del Poblenou between the old town and the Vila Olímpica, is a large pine forest with dunes that offer protection from the sea winds.

The proposal creates a play area that integrates seamlessly into the park and avoids separating children by age or ability. It extends over an existing slope with scattered furniture and elements, removing boundaries and fostering an open, continuous space. Designed with catalog elements for quicker execution, the layout avoids repetition by placing items in unconventional locations to encourage more natural play.

Topography is used strategically: the slope accommodates elements like a slide and climbing forest, while new mounds on the flat area prevent monotonous layouts. Resting zones are distributed throughout to broaden the age range and allow for unstructured, spontaneous use. Shaded spaces include vegetation and pergolas, designed in harmony with the circular multi-swing and referencing traditional park features like gazebos.

Materiality reinforces the connection with the park. Exposed aggregate concrete and white-painted structures echo other elements in the surroundings, while rubber surfaces are rendered in tones that blend into the soil, softening transitions between areas. Vegetation will further integrate the play area into its environment, although planting is pending due to the ongoing drought.