Walls, Fences, & Thresholds

Walls can serve a variety of purposes on the school ground. They can be freestanding walls that help to divide space, shorter walls that double as benches, or retaining walls that help to hold back a slope. A variety of creative add-ons can allow walls to double as exciting play elements – things like chalk paint and climbing holds. Walls can also be a great opportunity to create a legacy element that can be engraved with the names of donors. Equally important are fences and thresholds/gates that define the entrances to the school grounds, or to different areas.

Painted patchwork adds visual interest to this wallPaint is one of the most cost-effective ways to transform any space. An art wall can add colour and interest to a schoolyard. It can also provide...

Art Walls
Just about any stable vertical element can be turned into a fun climbing wall with the addition of something to hold on to. Kids enjoy the challenge...

Climbing Walls and Holds
Freestanding walls are very versatile elements and can be put just about anywhere. They can be used to separate and define different areas, create...

Freestanding Walls
Metal pole walls work well in terms of dividing up space, while still retaining sight lines for supervision. They can be varied by height, colour, and...

Metal Fences and Walls
Net walls provide a safe means of enclosing play equipment at heights, while also creating a fun tactile experience. Net walls can be stretchy, so...

Net Walls
Have slopes? Add retaining walls! A must for any steep school yard, retaining walls provide an opportunity to create fun sit-able spaces. They can...

Retaining Walls
Stone wall with a planted flower bedAnother way to divide up space in the schoolyard, both stone and gabion walls can be created using largely recycled materials. Digging up soil filled...

Stone and Gabion Walls
A large metal threshold defines the park entranceThresholds and gates mark out the entry points to play and outdoor learning spaces. These create a sense of excitement as one enters the spaces, and...

Thresholds & Gates
Low shrubs border this play areaA great way to break up space, while still providing visual permeability. A vegetated screen is typically a lattice-like structure that has vines or...

Vegetated Screens