Ellis Early Learning Community Park
Reimagining a neighborhood play space to enhance safety, support child development, and strengthen community connections.Our Landscape Studio worked with Ellis Early Learning to renew a beloved community playground in Boston that had become unsafe and outdated over time. Tree roots were creating tripping hazards, and play equipment was breaking down and no longer appropriate for the children using the space. The main priorities for the redesign were to eliminate safety concerns, preserve the existing trees, and create a play environment that better supported the developmental needs of the children.
Client
Ellis Early Learning
Location
Boston, Massachusetts
Services
Landscape Architecture
Size
3,000 sq ft
Creating a Safer, More Inclusive Play EnvironmentOur team completely removed the existing equipment and surfacing, which were unsuitable for the current age group. The playground was carefully re-graded to eliminate tripping hazards caused by tree roots. Where regrading alone wasn’t sufficient, new planting beds were introduced to discourage running through these areas and reduce tripping hazards while contributing to a more natural and inviting play environment.
New play equipment was introduced to accommodate a range of ages without the need for barriers or partitions, allowing the space to remain open and inclusive. The playground supports a variety of play experiences, encouraging social and emotional development through dramatic play and fostering physical growth through climbing and movement.
Celebrating a Neighborhood ConnectionThe playground holds special significance for the neighborhood, as it is open to the public in an area where safe, accessible parks for young children are limited. One of the most beloved aspects of the space is its proximity to the nearby highway and commuter rail, where children enjoy watching cars and trains pass by. A small hill along the parapet wall and fence allows children to safely stand and enjoy the view.
In collaboration with a local artist, the existing concrete parapet wall was transformed into a vibrant mural depicting a local train filled with children against the Boston skyline. The mural reflects both the neighborhood’s character and the children’s imagination, turning the playground into a meaningful and recognizable community landmark.
