Active outdoor spaces

Play turf planned for traffic, drainage and the actual equipment.

Backyard play areas, schools and public facilities can have very different requirements. The turf, underlay, base, transitions and maintenance plan should be selected for the specific application.

Institutional playground with artificial turf surfacing and colourful play equipment
Representative inspirationPlay areas require a complete system.

Equipment, fall zones, accessibility, drainage and applicable surface requirements must be defined before the assembly is selected.

Concept image, not a completed NorthLawn project.

A soft-feeling turf sample is not proof that a complete surface meets an application's impact or accessibility requirements.

Plan the complete play surface

Equipment and fall zones

Equipment type and installation height determine whether qualified impact-safety design is needed.

Drainage

Water needs a complete path through the surface and supporting layers.

Edges and transitions

Perimeters should avoid trip points and connect cleanly to paths, curbs and play equipment.

Maintenance access

Facility staff need clear methods for debris removal, cleaning and inspection.

Project planning sequence

Confirm the application

Document users, equipment, traffic, fall zones and governing project requirements.

Select a tested system when required

Coordinate turf, shock-absorbing layers and base specifications appropriate to the project.

Resolve drainage and transitions

Plan water movement, finished elevations and edges before construction.

Install and document care

Complete the specified system and provide maintenance and inspection information.

Safety claims require evidence

Do not rely on generic terms such as “safe,” “fall-rated” or “playground turf” without confirming the complete tested assembly, installation conditions and applicable project requirements. Product data should be reviewed by the parties responsible for the design and facility.

Project note: Playground and public-use projects may require qualified design, product testing, inspections and approvals beyond NorthLawn's installation scope.