Bastian Agricultural Center
Bastian Agricultural Center
South Jordan, Utah
Year
Design: 2026
Age Group
All Ages
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Overview:
As part of the new Bastian Agricultural Center in South Jordan, Utah, this project introduces two nature-based play environments that support ecological regeneration, child development, and climate-forward landscape strategies. Located within a regional agricultural and educational hub, the nature playgrounds offer a model for integrating meaningful play with long-term environmental stewardship.
The vision centers on reconnecting children and families with the rhythms and textures of the natural world. The strength of the space lies in its integration with the surrounding ecology and cultural context. Each playground is shaped by a detailed understanding of Utah’s arid landscape, native plant communities, and the projected effects of climate change over the next 50 to 100 years
A network of paths, clearings, and sensory zones guides children through a landscape that is both playful and dynamic. A regenerative approach underpins the landscape approach. Rather than imposing conventional playground structures, the design focuses on restoring and strengthening ecological processes across the former equestrian track. Soil enhancement, passive water capture, and microclimate-sensitive planting work together to support biodiversity and long-term resilience.
The design incorporates a mix of natural play elements, including climbable log structures, embedded water features, textured topography, and multi-sensory plantings. These elements support physical exploration, creativity, and environmental literacy, while reinforcing a direct connection to the land. The design also reflects the broader agricultural identity of the Bastian site, with references to surrounding systems of food production, land stewardship, and rural heritage expressed through form and materiality. In addition to supporting physical and social development, the play environments aim to build a foundational ethic of care for the environment.
