Saving play: PlayCubes at Chinatown Park

This spring, Bostonians witnessed the installation of new playground equipment in the form of PlayCubes, iconic sculptural playforms offering infinite possibilities for open-ended play, at Chinatown Park on The Rose Kennedy Greenway. Originally introduced in the 1960s by architect Richard Dattner, an exclusive partnership between Dattner and Playworld has given new life to the once popular playground.

IMG_1331Since being installed, the playground at Chinatown Park has welcomed both adults and kids for playtime.

We recently caught up with a few people who’ve visited and engaged with the playground. Here’s what they had to say about Boston’s newest playground:

“I’m so happy to have the playground here – it is bringing the Chinatown and Leather District neighborhoods together and gives the kids something to do after school. It is a really positive thing to have in the area.” – Kim Kulasekaran, Boston resident and mom

“PlayCubes at Boston’s Chinatown Park has quickly become a beloved neighborhood hub for play. The opening celebration with The Greenway was a great success, and each time I’ve visited since I see the park filled with children, parents, and community members thrilled to have a new opportunity for open-ended, urban play in Boston. Just over a week ago, we visited the PlayCubes with architect and designer Richard Dattner himself, and it was an amazing experience to be there with him and Playworld to witness his original design from the 1960s brought back to life in such an exciting way. We’re thrilled to be a partner with Playworld on this initiative, and hope that PlayCubes continues to bring joy to the area throughout the summer.” – Amanda Hawkins, program coordinator, Design Museum Foundation

IMG_0738“I loved seeing the very first installation of PlayCubes in-person on The Greenway in Boston. Not only did I get to climb on and enjoy the equipment but I also had the chance to witness dozens of adults and children doing the same. The squeals! The lines for the slide! The 20-somethings simply chilling on top of the PlayCubes after work! I couldn’t help but smile. My day in Chinatown Park served as yet another reminder why outdoor unstructured play shouldn’t be a thing of the past.” – Jennifer Leckstrom, RoseComm (Playworld’s public relations partner in play)

“We are bringing together families from neighborhoods whose children now have an opportunity to play together. It is truly wonderful to see a sense of community and how The Greenway inspires us once again!  The PlayCubes Chinatown Plaza play area is especially significant for bringing together children from the Chinatown neighborhood and the Leather District neighborhood.  I spoke to many grateful families playing here in Chinatown Plaza who are happy that their kids are now meeting and are experiencing joy together as they climb and slide together.” – Missy Benson, play advocate, Playworld

Have you had a chance to play on our PlayCubes yet? We look forward to installing PlayCubes in other towns and cities across the globe. Find out how to get a PlayCubes playground in your community by contacting your local Playworld representative here.

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