Ryan Gray Playground Pavilion

Lawrence, Kansas

The existing playground was the first ADA accessible playground in the State of Kansas when opened in 1993. It was built in memory of a disabled student at the elementary school where the playground is located. Although renovated in the last decade, the playground has lacked shade. In response, we collaborated with the local school district and parent teacher organization (PTO) to fundraise, design, and build a new shade pavilion and rain garden adjacent to the playground. 

During early design development, students presented models and drawings to the school district and elementary school children for feedback. The final design has a pleated form that follows the curved concrete slab and covers picnic benches to seamlessly blend in with existing playground amenities. The colorful roof tiles complement an already vibrant playground setting and reflect the international heritage of the student body at the elementary school. Existing playground signage is framed by the roof and columns of the new shade pavilion to integrate and strengthen the unique forms already present at the site. 

During rain events, water spills from valleys in the roof and floods the rain garden with water. Children can interact with the rain garden from the shelter of the pavilion or immerse themselves by climbing across the limestone boulders. The shade pavilion is built entirely of steel – galvanized structural framing defines the lower portion, while the roof tiles have an epoxy primer and powder-coated topcoat that enhances the undulating form with a durable color gradient.