MONSTRUM's Monstrously Fun Playgrounds

Though toys and video games have undergone numerous exciting innovations, the same cannot be said about outdoor playgrounds. Sure there is the occasional fun slide or web, but they are all more or less homogeneous - a few swings, a sand box, a monkey bar or two etc. etc. Where is, the imagination and innovation? Now, two Scandinavian designers finally seem to have seen the light.

Ole B. Nielsen and Christian Jensen, who founded MONSTRUM Inc. in 2003, have the simple belief that playground design should reflect the world around us - a place full of color and excitement. So why would one restrict kids to same sandbox or swing when they can frolic on the crater of the moon, go exploring under the seas in a submarine or better still, ride on an enormous snail, ant or rocket - The possibilities are as infinite as the creator's imagination!

For those who still crave traditional swings and monkey bars, they are present too! Just camouflaged inside these creative designs to make them a tad more exciting. The designers also try and incorporate different age groups and genders - For example one of their playgrounds features a princess castle and a rocket, side by side

Also, while the playgrounds which are now popping up across Scandinavia, appear whimsical, they are all built with for the same purpose as normal parks - To provide entertainment and challenge the motor skills of kids of all ages. Most important though, is the fact that all the structures meet the stringent Scandinavian safety standards.

The Copenhagen-based artists who began their careers with theatrical set-designs strive to create structures that are so visually stimulating that kids are voluntarily drawn to them. We think they are succeeding - Do you? Would you leave your exciting video game and go to the playground instead if, MONSTRUM built one in your neighborhood? Let us know, by adding your comments below.

Resources: Monstrum.dk, dailymail.co.uk