Awesome CIC
A Woodland Softplay Adventure in London

In early 2025, AWESOME CIC approached Play Creations to enhance their woodland indoor softplay area, one of their adventure playgrounds at the employee-led social enterprise in London. Managing Director Guy Lawrence leads AWESOME CIC and has been providing free play opportunities since 2014, combatting the limited open space by managing softplay sites from the 1970s. Operating six sites under contract with Islington Council, they sought to create an indoor woodland-inspired play space at Cape Adventure Playground in London, for children aged 0-8.

Our team conducted a detailed site visit, collaborating closely with Guy Lawrence and his team to align the design with their mission of creating inclusive, engaging soft play experiences that connect children with nature in an urban setting. Play Creations partnered with AWESOME CIC to develop a design brief for the woodland-themed softplay structure, made to fit seamlessly into the existing indoor playground area. The plan emphasised safety, durability, and thematic immersion, incorporating elements that create a forest environment while ensuring accessibility for all children.

With no major challenges encountered, the design process proceeded smoothly, focusing on a multi-level structure with interactive features. Our lifetime warranty on steel frameworks, including tubes and clamps, and soft play pieces like log ramps and climbing panels, assured AWESOME CIC of the project's long-term quality and reliability. The woodland-themed softplay area featured a climbing area with textured walls and holds for adventurous exploration, a V-Net bridge for balance and coordination, an LED infinity mirror for captivating visual effects, log ramps for gentle inclines, a dedicated baby area with interactive games for sensory stimulation, and a twin lane slide for fun descents. These design elements are all manufactured to ensure longevity and durability, making sure that they can withstand long periods of use and wear.

The installation was executed efficiently in mid-2025 by our expert softplay installation team, integrating the structure into the playground without disruptions, and coordinated with AWESOME CIC staff to maintain operational flow during the process. Play Creations and AWESOME CIC have established a strong, ongoing partnership, with us providing our regular maintenance scheme to keep the woodland indoor softplay area safe and vibrant. The installation reflects AWESOME CIC's commitment to innovative, community-focused play spaces, offering children a magical indoor woodland experience in the heart of London.

Standout features like the LED infinity mirror and V-Net bridge, supported by our lifetime and 15-year warranties on key components such as steel frameworks and timber panels, guarantee structural integrity for years ahead. This collaboration, guided by Managing Director Guy Lawrence, ensures the facility continues to inspire free play and nature connection for local families.