Inclusive Natural Playspaces Comparative Pre-Post Study
This project aims to investigate the opportunities in and impacts of natural outdoor playspaces that have been particularly designed to be inclusive, serving the needs and preferences of children of all abilities.
2026-2029
Project Overview
This project aims to fill a gap in environmental design scholarship and practice related to the inclusive design of outdoor playspaces, particularly those that are also nature-rich. We are working to establish a quasi-experimental pre-post comparison study at several public playspaces in communities in Oregon and Washington.
Where and with whom?
Working in collaboration with Harper's Playgrounds in Portland, Oregon, studying multiple playspaces in Oregon & Washington states
Expected Outcomes
This research will provide critical information and guidance about the benefits and value of inclusive, natural playspaces, in particular how they support diverse, high-quality play experiences for children navigating disability, neurodiversity and/or sensory sensitivities. It in anticipated that findings will help make the case for designing more inclusive public playspaces and provide additional design guidance.