Designing and developing a city park is nothing short of a gargantuan – yet unique and rewarding – undertaking. Here, in a proverbial nutshell, is the opportunity to create something of a refreshing space in a community that enables visitors and residents to congregate together to engage in outdoor activities…while soaking up the natural beauty of the region.
Whether it’s creating a park with picnic tables for families or a playground for youngsters – or a natural preserve that boasts a peaceful and serene aura – choosing the right furnishings for a city park is essential. The following represent some great picks when considering the best outdoor furniture choices for a community park.
1. Park Benches
Of course, first and foremost, the classic park bench remains at the top of furnishings lists; actually, regardless of the scope and size of a city park project, it’s vital to install places to sit and rest, period. As one sifts through park furnishings that are available, park benches are often the most affordable and most convenient seating options; not only do they seamlessly blend in with the overall landscape design of a park, but they are also cost-effective. From benches with and without backs to geometric benches that can be customized to fit a unique park layout, a plethora of options are waiting.
2. Shade Structures
When it comes to providing year-round shade, an investment in park furnishings like shade structures is recommended, with some of the most common types to include:
• Square Shade Covers – These can be installed over playgrounds, picnic areas, and more.
• Shade Sails – These flexible shade structures provide as-needed shade to those seeking refuge from the beating sun.
• Umbrellas – Helps those eating at picnic tables in the park by offering a restful shady spot.
3. Trash Receptacles (to Promote Cleanliness)
When choosing the right park furnishings, the amount of litter in the recreational area and green space can be significantly reduced by installing specific types of trash receptacles.
These include:
• Covered – These, in particular, are beneficial in parks because they provide a place to throw trash while deterring any wildlife in the area from getting inside.
• Decorative – Enhances the aesthetic of the park space.
• Recycling – An ideal way to promote recycling in the neighborhood.
4. Picnic Tables/Park Grills
The site furnishings chosen for a city park will have an impact on the number of people who will use it throughout a given time period, and as such, choosing the right furnishings in order to create great picnic areas inside the park is crucial. Some of the best furnishings for creating picnic areas for gathering and entertaining include:
• Picnic Tables – This may seem like a “given,” but they remain an essential park amenity, as they provide all visitors with a spot to have a snack or meal, rest, and socialize with each other. Picnic tables, like almost all furnishings, come in a variety of sizes and shapes, including standard rectangle forms as well as round variants with attached chairs; it’s important to incorporate ADA tables as well, so that park visitors of all abilities can comfortably recreate.
• Park Grills – As a great amenity to include in a city park, grills give local residents the ability to host one memorable cookout; rotating grills add to the convenience of the park’s dining areas.
5. Water Bottle Filling Stations
These are becoming an essential feature in parks, so it’s recommended that several of these park furnishings are strategically installed around the area. Park patrons need to have access to fresh water, so by prioritizing hydration centers, people can safely enjoy the space – whether they’re looking to engage in some yoga or jog along trails. With both standalone and wall-mount filling station options available, hydration areas that work best for a park’s particular budget and space can be realized.
There are a number of commercial site furnishing companies that have been in the business for many years, manufacturing products that are durable and low-maintenance.