How to seamlessly integrate landscape design with your splash pad
There are several factors that go into the design of a splash pad, from the layout of the features to the water treatment systems to other amenities such as shade and seating. And while all those factors are incredibly important when bringing an aquatic play space to life, landscape design is what really helps bring a splash pad to life!Â
With so many different options to choose from in terms splash pad landscaping ideas, from finishings and amenities to landscaping, it can be challenging to pull every element together into a seamless design. With a few tips, tricks, and some best practices from Waterplay and their experts, you can create a fun, accessible, and beautiful splash pad that will become a jewel in your community. Â
Blending landscaping into splash pad designÂ
When designing a splash pad, lots of focus is given to the water features and how they can maximize play to create the biggest splashes and most fun for those who will be using it. While creating epic play spaces is important, it’s also important to think about the big picture. How will the splash pad fit in with the surrounding environment? Will there be places for people to sit, or shady areas where parents and caregiverscan escape the sun? Â
This is where landscape design comes into play. A designer will be able to highlight all of the features that are necessary to create a cohesive outdoor play space that provides not only safe and accessible waterplay but also optimizes comfort for those not actively using the splash pad themselves. Waterplay’s expert designers can help you through every step of the design process, from the initial concepts of the space to high-quality renderings that will help generate excitement around your splash pad, to ensuring that the finished product provided epic splashes and maximum fun!Â
 
Keep it fun and family-friendly!Â
Designing a splash pad with kids and families in mind is a great way to ensure that your splash pad will make an impact. Creating different play zones can help target different age groups, ensuring that there are features for waterplayers of all ages and abilities. Spacing water features out and ensuring that landscape design elements don’t block views can help keep sightlines clear for parents and guardians who may be sitting on the sidelines. Opting for non-slip, kid-friendly materials and surfaces helps tokeep safety as a priority and can help make the splash pad more accessible. Â
While the actual splash pad features are important to the overall design – after all, that’s where all the fun happens – it’s also important to factor in areas for those who might not be directly on the splash pad itself. Creating zones with seating and shade for parents and guardians is a great way to keep a splash pad and the surrounding area inclusive for anyone who may be using it. A thoughtfully designed splash pad will ensure fun for the entire family! Â
Create unique spaces
Don't be afraid to have fun with the design of your splash pad! Create everything from splashy, sensory-focused spaces with bright colours and multi-function play areas to epic themed splash pads that highlight big splashes! Choosing landscape features that are interactive is a great way to encourage kids to think outside of the box and engage with their surroundings. Waterplay’s Surf Stones offer a great way of doing this, as they mimic the look and feel of rocks while still doubling as a splash pad feature, creating unique sensory play opportunities. The Waterways features are also great for encouraging sensory play, as children can dump, block, spin, guide, flick, and collect water as it journeys through the features. Â
Landscape design can also help determine how a space transitions from daytime use to nighttime use. Adding comfortable seating options like benches and incorporating lighting into the overall design can help extend the hours of a splash pad. In urban centres that want to feature ground sprays, the addition of LED lights such as Waterplay’s Luminary Spray is a great way to add visual interest to an aquatic play space, even at night. Â
Other factors to keep in mindÂ
Once the design of the actual splash pad itself has been finalized, that’s where other elements of landscape design come into place. You’ll want to consider shade solutions for those looking to get out of the sun, such as trees, pergolas, or shade sails.If you’re wanting to add trees and other shrubbery into the design, remember to factor in how long it will take them to grow, and what kind of maintenance will be required seasonally. If leaves and other debris falls onto the splash pad, how often will they be cleared, and will the drains be able to stop debris from entering the pipes and causing damage down the line?Â
When looking at hardscaping features such as walkways and seating areas, it’s important to keep accessibility in mind. Consider surfacing options that are non-slip and will be easily accessible to those who might use wheelchairs or other mobility aids. Using materials that are water-efficient can help with sustainability by minimizing the amount of water wasted. Permeable surfaces can help give any standing water somewhere to go to avoid pooling that could cause slip-hazards. In terms of seating, there are lots of great ADA-compliant options available that will be great for accomodating users of all ages and abilities.Â
In terms of softscaping, consider using plants and other greenery that is native to the area you’re working in. Choosing low-maintenance options is also a great way to keep maintenance to a minimum throughout splash pad season while still creating a beautiful space for everyone in the community to enjoy. Â