Tree Trunk Funk is a playground tailored for the pupils at Virupskolen, ranging from 1st to 3rd grade. Beautifully situated between the existing forest area and the classrooms, the playground serves as a bridge between the natural environment and the learning spaces. The design of the elements is customized to the area and draws inspiration from the nearby forest by resembling tree trunks arranged perpendicular to the building, thus preserving the view from the classrooms to the forest.

The design encompasses a range of new structures, including climbing frames, balance elements, areas for ball games, and an amphitheater that can be used for both play and teaching. The open and thoughtfully planned spaces combine play opportunities with areas for relaxation, accommodating diverse uses and providing flexibility to adapt to different activities. The multifunctional design offers the children plenty of opportunities for physical activity as well as for spending calmer time together.

Key to the success of this project was involving the students as co-designers through workshops, allowing them to express their desires for a versatile space. All play equipment needed to offer opportunities for both peaceful stay and more energetic play, catering to a wide range of activity preferences. The aim was to ensure the play experience remains engaging and dynamic, with the playground seamlessly transitioning between various uses and paces, and striking a balance between playful activities and valuable learning experiences.

Moreover, the installation of a new artificial grass surface helps keep the area green and effectively blurs the boundaries between the outdoors and indoors, enabling students to transition between the two zones seamlessly. The kids love to explore this playfield barefoot or in socks, which provides a nice sense of grounding and tactility. It eliminates concerns about dirty shoes and muddy surroundings, which had posed a significant challenge for both students and staff in the past. This transformation ensures a cleaner, more inviting environment for everyone to enjoy and explore.

Project Data

Landscape architecture: MBYland

Project location: Virupvej 75, 8530 Hjortshøj, Denmark

Client: Virupskolen

Landscape Architect/Designer: Mette Bruun Yde

Project team: Bodil Veibaek, Marie Bruun Yde & Kristian Mortensen

Photo credits: Jan Jul Søndergaard

Drone photo: KeepUp

Technical designers involved in the project: Park & Landskab

Manufacturer of play equipment: Park & Landskab

Size: 900 sqm

Year completed: 2022