Ian Diness develops artistic playgrounds and sculptural play structures in the intersection between art, architecture and play. The projects are rooted in the character of each site and in the intention to create environments where movement, imagination and form come together as a unified spatial experience.
The playgrounds emerge as spatial narratives in which sculptural figures and landscape-like structures form the framework for children’s exploration. Climbing, balancing, resting and hiding are integrated into forms that function both as sculpture and as playable structures.
Materials, colours and construction methods are developed with reference to Nordic craft traditions and durable materials suitable for public use. At the same time, narrative and character play an important role, allowing each project to develop its own atmosphere and internal logic.
All constructions are developed in collaboration with established playground manufacturers and produced in accordance with DS/EN 1176 safety standards for public playground equipment. This allows an artistic approach to form and narrative to coexist with the technical requirements of public space.
One example is Sørøverhaven, developed for Børnehuset Sct. Thomas. Here an existing playground is transformed into a small pirate landscape consisting of a climbing tower shaped as a dog, a parrot functioning as a playhouse, a shipwreck structure and a series of circular wooden elements surrounding the sandbox. Together these elements create a varied spatial rhythm, with places for movement, places for rest and smaller spaces for storytelling and imagination.
The work explores how playground structures can operate as a meeting point between sculpture and use — environments where children not only interact with the structures physically, but also reinterpret them through play.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Sketch proposals, models and visualisations with attention to play value, functionality and safety.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Sketch proposals, models and visualisations with attention to play value, functionality and safety.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Development of the project’s narrative, spatial idea and aesthetic direction in dialogue with client and users.
Beyond their functional role, playgrounds can also contribute to the cultural life of a place. When play structures are approached as spatial works rather than standard equipment, they can add character, narrative and visual identity to everyday environments such as schools, courtyards and public parks. In this way the playground becomes not only a place for activity, but also a small piece of public culture, a place that invites curiosity, gathering and shared experience.
If you are interested in developing a playground or site specific play structure, feel free to get in touch.