Adult Play

Why are the only play spaces in the city for kids?

Research has shown that the benefits of play are not limited to children. Adult play can relieve stress, improve overall well-being, nurture critical thinking and benefit our relationships. Despite the many benefits, it’s hard to find examples of adult play spaces in the city outside of the standard sports fields, pickleball courts, and ping pong tables.

What kinds of play are there, what dimensions of design can help facilitate play, and how can cities provide more opportunities for play for adults?

Steve DiPasquale and Kim Winston from HMCA introduced the topic and shared examples of their work on laneway activation. Then, five breakout groups discussed unstructured, structured, movement-based, imagination-based, and digital play.