Water play has always been a cherished source of joy and refreshment for people of all ages—especially when the heat demands it. The water playground in the Inner Green Belt, nestled between Venloer and Vogelsanger Straße, is precisely that: a beloved destination since its summer 2021 opening. The original facility, built in the 1960s, required urgent renewal. The landscape architecture firm Axel Schütze, commissioned by the City of Cologne, created an entirely reimagined space spanning over 1,250 m². Their vision was clear: craft a destination that invites year-round engagement and genuine comfort, while upholding the highest standards of sustainability and resource stewardship.

Water conservation shaped every design decision. State-of-the-art water technology powers the playground's attractions from manufacturer Roigk—cleverly engineered to create the sensation of abundant water while using remarkably little. The play surface itself meets rigorous standards: optimal fall protection, reliable slip resistance, and complete water impermeability. The design palette echoes the water and beach theme—two shades of blue paired with sandy tones—instantly transporting visitors to a seaside escape. Beyond operating hours, the surface's elastic and shock-absorbing qualities transform it into a haven for active recreationalists. Early mornings bring dance groups, yoga enthusiasts, gymnasts, and martial artists who've discovered it as their ideal practice space.

www.axel-schuetze.de

Photography Credits:

Axel Schütze
Felix Arabin

(Published in CUBE Cologne Bonn 03|22)