Verde Design collaborated with the City of Mountain View and the Magical Bridge Foundation to develop construction documents for the Magical Bridge playground located at Rengstorff Park. We also provided comprehensive construction administration services, culminating in the park’s grand opening in January 2025.
The playground is set within a generous expanse of open space surrounded by mature trees. The design incorporates vibrant colored concrete paving, permeable pavers, and accessible pathways that meander throughout the playground. Key features include a welcoming donor wall over Ava’s Bridge, an engaging swing zone, a spin zone, a tot lot, and an exhilarating slide mound with a sloped pathway that leads towards a whimsical bridge and two-story playhouse, which boasts a stage area and terrace seating below. The design thoughtfully integrates large shade trees, landscaped areas, and a biofiltration planter, while new shade trees and colorful plantings enhance the spacious open areas, creating a vibrant and inviting atmosphere for all.
Site challenges included incorporating the shade from existing mature trees while avoiding impacts to their sensitive roots and canopies. Another challenge was complying with easement requirements from an existing SFPUC right-of-way, which runs between the playground and its main parking lot. The sequencing of construction had to be carefully orchestrated to overcome this challenge, working from the inside-out.
The Magical Bridge playground is designed to be fully inclusive, catering to the diverse needs of individuals of all ages and abilities, including those with varying levels of cognitive, physical, and mental challenges. The entire playground and its surrounding areas are thoughtfully crafted to ensure accessibility and enjoyment for all visitors, fostering an environment where everyone can engage and play together. These playgrounds serve as valuable assets to the local community, functioning as destination sites that offer distinctive play and social experiences for generations to come.
