Direct Answer
Small spaces require smarter design, not smaller ambitions. Focus on multi-functional elements, vertical opportunities, high play-value features (sandpits, water play), and flexible zones that serve multiple purposes. Quality of design matters more than quantity of equipment. A well-designed 50m² space can offer richer play than a poorly designed 200m² space.
Principles for Small Space Design
1. Multi-Functional Elements
Every element should serve multiple purposes:
- Sandpit with seating edge: Play feature + gathering space
- Climbing structure with cubby beneath: Active + imaginative play
- Raised garden beds: Nature play + seating + learning
- Mounds: Climbing + rolling + defining zones
2. Vertical Play
When ground space is limited, go up:
- Climbing walls and panels
- Multi-level platforms
- Vertical gardens
- Hanging elements (swings, ropes—if space for fall zones)
Caution: Vertical elements still need fall zones. Don't assume "going up" avoids space requirements.
3. Flexible Zones
Create spaces that transform:
- Open paved area: Wheeled toys in morning, group activities in afternoon
- Grass area: Running space when clear, picnic space with rugs
- Covered space: Wet weather play, outdoor learning, performance area
4. High-Value Features
Some features deliver more play per square metre:
- Sandpit: Hours of engagement, small footprint
- Water play: High engagement, flexible setup
- Loose parts storage: Transforms any space
- Mud kitchen: Compact, high play value
What to Avoid in Small Spaces
- Equipment with large fall zones: Swings and tall slides consume disproportionate space
- Single-purpose equipment: Slide that's only a slide wastes precious square metres
- Sprawling layouts: Tight sites need compact, intentional design
- Too many elements: Cramming everything in creates chaos, not play
- Ignoring storage: Small spaces need clever storage for loose parts
Design Strategies
Zone Carefully
- Define clear zones even in small spaces
- Use level changes, surfaces, or planting to separate areas
- Create "rooms" without walls
- Allow flow between zones
Use Edges and Boundaries
- Fence lines can support climbing panels, sensory elements
- Perimeter planting creates nature connection without centre space
- Built-in seating along edges frees central space
Embrace Simplicity
- One excellent climbing structure beats three mediocre ones
- Quality natural materials over quantity of plastic
- Open space for children to create their own play
Example: 60m² Childcare Courtyard
A well-designed small space might include:
- Sandpit (8m²): With timber edge seating
- Compact climbing/cubby (6m² + fall zone): Multi-level with hiding space beneath
- Raised garden beds (4m²): Along fence line
- Open flexible space (30m²): Soft surface for various activities
- Small paved area (8m²): Wheeled toys, mark-making
- Storage shed (4m²): For loose parts and equipment
Compliance in Small Spaces
Small doesn't mean exempt from standards:
- Fall zones: Must still meet AS 4685 requirements
- Space per child: 7m² minimum still applies
- Supervision: Clear sightlines remain essential
- Surfacing: Compliant softfall in all fall zones
Key Takeaways
- Quality over quantity: One great element beats many mediocre ones
- Multi-functional design: Every element should serve multiple purposes
- High-value features: Sandpits and loose parts deliver more play per m²
- Vertical opportunities: Use height, but remember fall zones
- Flexible zones: Spaces that transform for different uses
- Compliance still applies: Small spaces don't exempt you from AS 4685
- Professional design: Small spaces need more skill, not less
Working with a Challenging Space?
Small and constrained sites are some of our favourite design challenges. Book a free discovery call to discuss how we might maximise play value in your space.
Book Discovery Call