RisingOaks - St. Patrick
RisingOaks – St. Patrick
Cambridge, Ontario
Year
2025
Age Group
Infant, Toddler & Preschool
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Overview:
RisingOaks | St. Patrick is part of a new child care development in Cambridge, where the natural playground was envisioned as an extension of the outdoor learning environment. The project required thoughtful coordination between the installation, production, and design teams to ensure the outdoor space supported the developmental and educational goals of the children enrolled at the centre. The result is a natural play environment that aligns seamlessly with the school’s broader vision for outdoor learning.
The playground integrates nature-based play directly into the space, creating a welcoming and engaging outdoor environment. Each play zone was intentionally designed to reflect pedagogical priorities, offering opportunities for exploration, creativity, movement, and social interaction. Natural materials, varied topography, and sensory-rich elements encourage students to develop confidence, curiosity, and a connection to the natural world.
Future Phasing Opportunities
The playground design provides a strong foundation for future expansion as the school community continues to grow. Additional play areas and programming elements can easily be incorporated over time, allowing the outdoor space to evolve while maintaining the integrity of the existing natural play framework.
Site Considerations & Design Approach
The project required careful planning as work progressed alongside ongoing construction activities across the school site. Our team adapted the design to align with evolving conditions while maintaining the play environment’s intent and quality. Considerations such as grading, drainage, and pathway integration were addressed collaboratively to ensure a safe, functional, and cohesive outdoor space for children and educators.
Client Priorities & Integration
The final design reflects the specific developmental needs and daily rhythms of the children who use the space. Each element was selected to support both learning and play, balancing pedagogical goals with the site’s practical requirements. Through close communication with the client team, the playground was delivered in a way that supports their vision, aligns with curriculum needs, and enhances the overall school experience.
