Play
Nature Play
Explore our nature play equipment
Our Nature Play product range is predominately made up of products using Robinia Hardwood - other wood species such as pine are used where appropriate. Each unit we create is unique and we let the grain dictate how we use each piece.
The use of European Robinia is totally sustainable and it is at the centre of our Nature Play range - it features in our themed play units such as our ships and playhouses while also featuring in our traditional play equipment such as swings and springers.
The strength and durability of Robinia Hardwood is ideal for our obstacle courses with the end result being a challenging and fun experience for all children.
Nature playground equipment can be found across Ireland, from community parks to camping sites. Whatever the theme of your playground, natural play structures are sure to look great, as well as offer additional benefits for children of all ages. Explore our range of themed and traditional natural playground equipment below or get in touch with our team for more information.
The most popular nature play products
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Creating play areas with natural play equipment
What are the benefits of a natural playground?
There are many benefits to installing a nature based playground, with mental and physical stimulation being the main two. Nature play structures are also ideal for sites that need to be in keeping with their surroundings, such as nature woodlands, parks and other green spaces.
From a cognitive perspective, nature based playgrounds allow young minds to become accustomed to the unusual, rough textures of nature, offering a host of benefits and advantages. Children can build a positive association with nature, built from the experiences they have of playing and engaging with wood, soil and other natural playground surfaces. This is the best way to transition a love of nature into adulthood.
Additionally, nature playgrounds encourage children to step out of their comfort zone and engage with textures and objects that they have never come across before. This willingness to discover new things is incredibly beneficial, helping boost attainment in school alongside creating positive habits and behaviours that stay with you into adulthood.
Physical benefits of nature based playgrounds
The natural versatility of wood makes it a brilliant playground equipment material, and KOMPAN’s extensive product selection caters to all manner of physical challenges.
From obstacle courses and springers to natural playground climbers and commercial wooden swing sets, we have created outdoor natural playground equipment that covers all major ranges. Each of these options permits different development opportunities, allowing children to practice both fine and gross motor skills depending on the specific playground equipment in question.
Through this, it’s possible to combine nature’s innate cognitive benefits with the developmental strengths offered by other playground equipment designs.
Natural Play Equipment that can withstand the Irish Weather
We all know what the Irish weather is like - sunny one day and lots of rain the next! In order to survive in such an unpredictable environment, Irish playgrounds need to be able to withstand all types of weather. KOMPAN have a factory exclusively dedicated to products made of strong and durable Robinia wood. This ensures we always work with the best types of materials and have full control over production to deliver the highest quality to our customers.
Key Facts about our Nature Play Structures
Organic, environmentally friendly and can be FSC certified
Naturally occurring preservatives make it resistant to rot, humidity and water
Low levels of fabrication give posts natural winding curves and bends
Native European wood that is naturally strong and durable
Built to last, with up to 15 years' warranty
Materials
As part of our environmental footprint, we have made a wide range of our product range available in Robinia - everything from old favourites such as swings and climbing frames to sand and water play. Due the the strength of the wood it is ideal for wooden gym equipment which are a great addition to parks or school yards.
Your walk with nature play starts here.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Robinia?
Robinia is the tree that gives everything. From replenishing the soil with nitrogen, to burning like coal, to providing the source for an exceptional honey, to being one of the most dense and versatile timbers. It is also a sustainable source. A native of eastern USA, where it is called black locust, it was introduced to Europe by the King of France’s gardener in 1602. That tree still stands in Square Viviani in central Paris. The tree can now be found growing around the world. In Europe it is most prolific in Germany, Romania and the Czech Republic. It is the wood of choice for KOMPAN because it brings strength, durability and individuality to each design.
Which lasts longer, man-made or natural materials?
The answer in KOMPAN terms is neither – with proper care they both should last for a playing lifetime. Robinia wood has a 15-year warranty. If there is one difference the man-made Ecocore™ has a lifetime guarantee, it looks as good on day one as day 10,000, wood on the other hand matures and can often seem more welcoming with age.
What kind of after care is needed for Robinia?
A caring eye is foremost. Being part of nature at KOMPAN we let nature take its course. Most often this adds ‘character’ – the grain and knotting of wood are part of the attraction - but where the natural development might threaten structural safety, the warranty comes into effect. Regular inspections and checks of your equipment will ensure it is safe and in good condition for use.