In Jinan, China, Boulder Park has reimagined the concept of a community playground through the fusion of natural inspiration and advanced construction technology. Designed by XISUI Design, the 13,000 m² park centres around large boulder-like structures, symbolising permanence and connecting the space to the surrounding natural landscape. These forms are not only sculptural but also functional, incorporating climbing routes, slides, tunnels, and water features.

Design and Layout

The park is divided into five themed zones – the All-Age Boulder Playground, Water Garden, Forest Garden, Stone Garden, and Flower Garden – with XISUI Design focusing on the first three. The All-Age Boulder Playground blends traditional play equipment such as swings, seesaws, and trampolines into a terrain of stone and concrete “caves.” These encourage physical activity, imaginative play, and a deeper connection with nature.

The adjacent Water Garden integrates shallow streams, fountains, and interactive water devices, enabling children to explore the tactile and visual qualities of flowing water. This seamless integration of play with landscape fosters both learning and sensory engagement.

Innovation in Materials and Construction

The park’s defining feature is its use of 3D printed concrete to create monolithic, free-form structures. This additive manufacturing method allows for complex curves and layered rock textures that mimic natural stone, shapes that are difficult to achieve with traditional formwork. The digital design process ensures precision, reduces material waste, and opens up new possibilities for organic architecture in public spaces.

The concrete used in Boulder Park achieves an average strength of 50 MPa, exceeding the standard for conventional landscape applications. The technology enables the creation of integrated steps, slides, handrails, and seating within a single continuous form, enhancing safety by eliminating sharp edges and seams.

Sustainability and Design Potential

While concrete is not inherently a low-carbon material, 3D printing can reduce environmental impact by optimising material use and enabling lighter structures. For landscape architects, urban designers, and product designers, this approach offers a pathway to more efficient, customised, and multifunctional installations. The technique’s adaptability makes it equally suited to public spaces, artistic interventions, and experimental architecture.

A Model for Future Public Spaces

Boulder Park demonstrates how emerging fabrication technologies can enhance public realm design while maintaining harmony with natural surroundings. By combining local cultural references, playful functionality, and cutting-edge production methods, XISUI Design has created a space that is as engaging for children as it is inspiring for designers.

Source: v2com | XISUI Design
Photos: Zhou Sheng, CHENIN Visual / Hu Yihao, XISUI Design