About the design concepts

the designs presented in this engagement are two themes intended to take us through some options and styles to consider in the final splash pad design, but are not finished designs to vote on. Through community engagement use concept most preferred by participants and adapt it to the community needs and interests we hear about throughout this process. Finally we will add the actual splash elements, and create a fulsome design for construction later this year..

Modern Theme

Review the full design or the shortened design summary for detailed information.

The modern design of the splash pad provides a timeless and inclusive play area with sleek lines and an open oval activity area. Spray equipment can be located all around the open space and integrated into the curved wall that sections off a smaller play zone.

This design recognizes the need for other activities around the splash area including trails and seating, and also connects well with other spaces inside the park.

Features:

• Concrete seat walls with mounted backed benches facing the splash pad
• An acrylic top shade structure located east of the site with colourful rectangular panels creating a decorative pattern effect
• Ample seating built-in with flexible space to bring chairs and blankets to relax in
• 3 metre wide accessible curved pathways surrounding the play area
  
  
  

Natural Theme

Review the full design or the shortened design summary for detailed information.

The natural design of the splash pad harmoniously ties into the site with gentle pathways linking to the playground and washroom building. The oval shape of the splash pad is influenced by the existing playground shape, creating unity between these shared spaces.

The organic leaf acrylic top shade structure casts green petals on the splash pad surface. The shade structure invites people to sit at the picnic tables and lounge out of the sun.

Features:

• A sculptural rock feature south of the splash pad uses smooth boulders that provides opportunities for people to sit, climb and explore the splash pad.
• The organic leaf acrylic top shade structure casts green petals on the splash pad surface
• Ample seating bult-in with flexible space to bring chairs and blankets to relax in
• 3 metre wide accessible curved pathways surrounding the play area

We want to hear from area children!

For this project our team has developed a classroom kit of information and activities in line with the Grade 5 curriculum but adaptable for other grades. Kits have already been sent to schools in the neighbourhood surrounding Margaret Green with several classrooms participating.

For this project students will learn about:

• the City of Guelph and how municipal government works with Provincial and Federal governments to provide services and programs for our community while looking out for our safety and quality of life;
• the decision-making process at the City of Guelph and how Community members can get involved, and;
• the plans and options available for the design of Margaret Greene’s new splash pad.

Through in-class activities, students discuss what makes a good splash pad, compare and contrast different design elements, and vote on which design the class likes best. Students will learn communication skills, critical thinking, debate, and experience a voting process.

Not only that, but they get to help make their community a better place!

Anonymous feedback from the students will be shared with our project team to help make the Margaret Greene splashpad an exciting new addition to the neighbourhood.

If you'd like to get your child at home involved, that's fantastic! You can complete the survey with them, we really value their thoughts. You can also download our "the best splash pad is..." activity, then scan and send us what the young person in your life comes up with!

If you would like to receive a classroom kit or to learn more, contact tracy.suerich@guelph.ca

Funding for the design and construction of the splash pad was approved as part of the 2022-2023 capital budget process.