THE SPACE
GARDEN
PLAYGROUND
WHERE:
The Commons, Hermann Park, Houston, TX, USA
OPENING YEAR:
2024
COLLABORATION:
MVVA
CUSTOMER:
Hermann Park Conservancy
The Commons at Hermann Park are home to an impressive playground spread across multiple areas that fall under two overarching themes - space and the animal kingdom. Both themes are inspired by Houston - paying tribute to its iconic space program and simultaneously its vibrant animal life, which also can be experienced at the nearby Houston Zoo.
The play areas here are divided by age group and there really is something for every age and stage.
For the bigger kids, the 45-foot-tall Apollo 11-inspired rocket is a real blast to explore, before they discover the nearby space capsule that has landed, complete with parachute. From there, the playground transitions into an animal kingdom theme, reflecting the local wildlife with a snake, bullfrog, dragonflies, gorilla, and crocodiles to play on and inside.
This playground provides hours of boundless fun and exploration for everyone!
HOUSTON, WE HAVE LIFT-OFF!
The rocket can be accessed via the impressive steel bridge.
Climb up and explore the biiiig rocket!
Become an astronaut on your way to outer space!
Explore the space capsule and its parachute.
Take your seat and brace for impact!
"It's pretty spectacular since there is something
for everyone and it's divided by ages."- Anastasia, Visitor at The Commons
VENTURE INTO THE ANIMAL KINGDOM
The gulf crayfish snake is slithering along amongst the greenery.
The insides of the snake are like a labyrinth to navigate.
The frog represents the Houston Toad, local to the Texas area.
The charming creature is a smaller play structure, yet it can still be explored inside.
The mighty yet friendly gorilla is a nod to the nearby Houston Zoo.
These beautiful crocodiles are fun to climb and balance on and double as seating.
An early sketch of the concept design.
