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Case Studies
The Imperial War Museum Duxford has long been a destination for learning, exploration, and discovery. In 2024, the museum introduced the Weston Play Zone – an exciting, inclusive play area that allows children of all abilities to learn through play, inspired by the aviation and engineering heritage of the museum itself. Timberplay was proud to contribute to this fantastic project with play equipment that supports creativity, movement, and inclusivity.
About the Weston Play Zone
Designed to bring the stories of IWM Duxford to life, the Weston Play Zone invites children to imagine, climb, balance, and explore, all while learning about flight, innovation, and teamwork. The play area is split into three zones – Earth, Sea, and Air – each with equipment that reflects different elements of engineering and exploration.
Timberplay’s Contribution
Working alongside the Imperial War Museum and The School Renovation Company, Timberplay supplied high-quality play equipment manufactured by Richter Spielgeräte. Central to the play area is the focus on inclusivity – something Timberplay champions in all projects. One of the standout pieces of equipment is the Richter wheelchair see-saw, offering children who use wheelchairs the chance to experience playful movement alongside their peers.
Other equipment includes natural timber climbing structures, rope bridges, balance beams, and sensory play elements that encourage open-ended, imaginative play. The use of robinia wood and natural materials ensures durability, safety, and aesthetic harmony with the surrounding environment.
Inclusive Design
The Weston Play Zone has been carefully designed to ensure all children, regardless of ability, can enjoy play. Level access pathways, sensory-rich equipment, and inclusive features such as the wheelchair see-saw and wide ramps demonstrate a genuine commitment to accessibility.
Bringing Stories to Life
Timberplay’s equipment supports the play area’s educational themes, allowing children to role-play as pilots, engineers, and explorers. The structures are designed to inspire curiosity and teamwork – with plenty of opportunities for group play, problem-solving, and physical challenge.
Sustainability and Safety
As with all Timberplay projects, sustainability and safety are key. The equipment is crafted from robust robinia wood, known for its strength and resilience, requiring minimal maintenance. All play structures are designed to the highest safety standards, ensuring worry-free play for families visiting the museum.
Community Impact
The Weston Play Zone has quickly become a highlight for visitors to IWM Duxford, offering a dedicated space for younger visitors to learn and play. Feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with families praising the inclusive design and the ability to engage children in hands-on exploration.
Timberplay is delighted to have played a part in creating the Weston Play Zone at IWM Duxford, contributing to an inspiring and inclusive space where children can play, learn, and dream. The project showcases how thoughtful design and quality play equipment can enhance visitor experiences and create lasting memories.
