Designing a habitat-inspired play experience at Jersey Zoo

A bespoke wooden playground with an organic design, featuring a slide, rope bridge, and climbing elements, set in a sandy play area surrounded by lush greenery.

Bringing play to new heights

Jersey Zoo set us a challenge: to transform their existing playground into an immersive, nature-inspired experience that not only delighted young visitors but also reflected the environments of the zoo’s incredible animals. Located between the great apes habitat, this play space needed to embody Gerald Durrell’s deep love for the natural world while giving children a chance to explore and learn in a way that mimicked the movements of one of our closest relatives—the orangutan.

Inspired by the wild

The centrepiece of the new play area is a striking triple cluster of towers, their design inspired by the orangutan climbing structures next door. The towers combine sleek wooden forms with intricate bird’s nest structures, inviting children to scale their heights and experience the world from a canopy perspective. We aimed to encourage playful interaction between children and the orangutans, fostering a deeper connection with nature.

Durrell’s Den, a secluded tower positioned amongst the trees, adds another layer of adventure. From here, children can engage with the tree canopy above, immersing themselves in the world of the zoo’s wildlife. Beneath the tower, we created a nature investigation station—a tribute to Durrell’s pioneering conservation work. Equipped with magnification posts, it invites young explorers to discover the hidden details of their environment, from tiny insects to the intricate textures of bark and leaves.

Play for everyone

Accessibility and inclusivity were key to the design. A basket swing ensures children of all abilities can join in the fun, while a tactile gravel pit provides a sensory-rich experience for the youngest visitors. Climbing routes vary in difficulty, ensuring that children of all confidence levels can find their own way to play. And for those with a more inquisitive mind, the play space is packed with opportunities to investigate and learn.

Real play in the heart of the zoo

This project was about creating a space that embodies the ethos of Jersey Zoo and inspires the next generation of nature lovers. Whether they’re swinging, climbing or peering through a magnifying glass, children are stepping into a world where exploration and conservation go hand in hand. A playground that’s as wild as the creatures it celebrates.

Looking to create a unique and nature-inspired play space for your visitors? Get in touch with us to discuss how we can bring real play to your site.