Aqaba Playscape

As part of the Bernard van Leer Foundation's Urban95 initiative, Superpool designed a new playground in Aqaba, Jordan — built on the belief that outdoor play is essential to early childhood, supporting physical growth, social interaction and cognitive development.
In Jordan, Urban95 works through the Zaha Cultural Centers, public spaces serving children and families across the country. A core strategy is embedding play directly into neighbourhoods, so that families have safe, stimulating environments within reach of home rather than somewhere they have to travel to.

The Aqaba playground takes its cues from the surrounding landscape and the sense of exploration it offers. It is organised in three zones.

The Mountain — hills and slides that turn climbing and descending into adventure, building strength and confidence.

The Desert — sand pools, boats and playhouses that prompt imaginative play and bring children together.

The Forest — shaded and sensory-rich, inviting calmer, more focused exploration.

Designed for its place and built with locally sourced materials and local manufacturing, the playground shows how site-specific design can support early childhood development while strengthening community ties and the relationship to land and nature.