Park Manor Neighborhood Chicago, IL.
Martha Ruggles Elementary School
A perfect mixture of learning-landscaping with modern elements that spark imagination and effect use of split outdoor spaces.
Built in 1924, the school was named for Martha M. Ruggles, an educator in the Chicago school system from 1864 to 1923. At CORDOS Construction, we take great pride in our commitment to excellence and our passion for creating spaces that inspire both fun and learning. We understand the crucial role that playgrounds play in a child's development, providing opportunities for physical activity, social interaction, and cognitive growth. That's why we are dedicated to rebuilding playgrounds to the highest standard of fun and learning.
Natural reclaimed materials
The project transformed the school’s unimproved lawn spaces with a cohesive playground that provides structure for recreation for students and neighbors, along with opportunities for outdoor learning.
The use of modern materials brings a dynamic feel to the playground, creating a more harmonious connection with the outdoor environment. This can contribute to a calming and pleasant atmosphere for children.
The layout encourages imaginative play. Playhouses, forts, and climbing features can become spaces for creative scenarios, fostering social interaction and storytelling among children.
Creating a school playground involves a comprehensive effort that engages various municipal agencies. Schools, being integral components of urban spaces, require thoughtful planning in terms of free areas, sports, and education. This becomes even more crucial when the playground is intended for use in the afternoons by students attending all-day schooling and made available for non-school use. It demands a careful consideration of the relationship with residential surroundings and the preferences of local children and young people.
Moreover, each school must engage in consultations with its board, local authority, district groups, teachers, local residents, clubs, pupils, parents, and policymakers. This collaborative approach aims to formulate an appropriate plan for the playground's design, taking into account its potential uses. The specific design and usage considerations will be influenced by factors such as the type of school (i.e., the age group of children), the educational approach employed, and whether the playground is designated for compulsory sport lessons.
