In close proximity to the “Harbor Market Ship” playground, which we completed in 2005, we set out to continue enhancing the quality of life at the city center with another play area. The complementary, lighthouse-themed project offered similar challenges to the ones already faced with the nearby playground, namely having to dispense with foundation work owing to its being located deep within a pedestrian zone. The lighthouse and all of the auxiliary playing equipment had to be positioned directly onto the pavement without establishing a foundation first. So-called “water waves” with fish form the border that contains the sand intended for fall protection purposes. The lighthouse itself, but also the paddle boat is part of the enclosure.

In accordance with DIN EN 1176/77, the greatest allowable height for the equipment vis-à-vis the outside pavement is 60 cm. Within the edging, 40 cm of this measurement must be filled with sand for fall protection in order to comply with DIN EN. All of the components are planned with static stability in mind. They are mounted to the market’s heavy pavement slabs via a ground anchor system.

The large striped lighthouse can be climbed like a playhouse, though only from the inside. From the top, a stainless steel slide descends down to the sand, the fish, crab-spring rider and paddle boat.

The new “Lighthouse” playground will help to decongest the immensely popular “Harbor Ship” and give children a new opportunity to experience yet more excitement in the city center.