Awesome CIC

In early 2025, AWESOME CIC, an employee-led social enterprise in Islington, London, approached Play Creations to enhance one of their adventure playgrounds with a woodland-themed softplay area. Led by Managing Director Guy Lawrence, AWESOME CIC has been providing free play opportunities since 2014, continuing a legacy of adventure playgrounds from the 1970s to combat limited open spaces in the borough. Operating six sites under contract with Islington Council, they sought to create an indoor, nature-inspired space at Cape Adventure Playground in London N8 9EG, for children aged 0-8. Our team conducted a detailed site visit, collaborating closely with Guy Lawrence and the team to align the design with their mission of fostering inclusive, engaging play experiences that connect children with nature in an urban setting. Play Creations partnered with AWESOME CIC to develop a comprehensive design brief for a woodland-themed softplay structure, tailored to fit seamlessly into the existing Cape Adventure Playground facility. The plan emphasized safety, durability, and thematic immersion, incorporating elements that evoke 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 volumetric 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 elements, including the slide's structural panels and interactive surrounds, are backed by our 15-year warranty against structural failure, ensuring enduring performance. The installation was executed efficiently in mid-2025 by our expert team, integrating the structure into the playground without disruptions, and coordinated with AWESOME CIC staff to maintain operational flow during the process. Play Creations has established a strong, ongoing partnership with AWESOME CIC, providing regular maintenance to keep the woodland-themed softplay area at Cape Adventure Playground 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 Islington. 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.