The Urban Conga, a multidisciplinary design studio, has collaborated with Polo Grounds residents in Harlem, NY, to create Sprout, a multisensory neurodiverse playscape.
This innovative project is part of the Mayor’s Action Plan for Neighborhood Safety (MAP), which seeks to reimagine public safety and well-being through resident-driven decision-making and government investment.
Community-Driven Design Process
Sprout was designed based on a series of play workshops with community members of all ages, who shared their ideas, experiences, and desires. The Urban Conga implemented these community inputs, transforming an empty courtyard with decaying benches into a vibrant, multisensory environment featuring various textures, colors, reflections, movements, sounds, and scales.
The Structure of Sprout
The playscape consists of four pieces that appear to sprout from the ground, symbolizing the beginning of more to come. Three pieces contain kinetic elements, while one is designed as a quiet space. The structures feature reflective, color-changing leaf-like pieces that can be spun, allowing users to manipulate their surroundings. Words of affirmation selected by the community, such as “discover,” “support,” and “connect,” wrap around the base platforms, encouraging personal reflection and conversations between residents.
Impact on the Community
Maeghann Coleman and Ryan Swanson of The Urban Conga emphasized that Sprout aims to spark a larger conversation about the value of creating neurodiverse play experiences beyond traditional playgrounds. Jose Torres from the Center for Innovative Justice highlighted the importance of focusing on neurodiversity and equitable playspaces in urban planning.
Project Details
- Completion Date: June 26, 2024
- Location: Polo Grounds Houses, 3005 Frederick Douglass Blvd, Harlem, NY
- Dimensions: Each piece is 6 feet in diameter and ranges in height from 2 to 7 feet.
Conclusion
This collaborative effort between The Urban Conga, NYCHA, the Center for Innovative Justice, the New York City Office of Neighborhood Safety, and the Polo Grounds Neighborhood Stakeholders Team (NSTAT) demonstrates the power of community-driven design in creating inclusive, engaging public spaces that promote safety and social interaction. Sprout not only enhances the physical landscape but also fosters communal connection and growth among residents.
Photo credit: The Urban Conga, NYCHA.
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