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New 2023 Soft Play Brochure

Posted on by The Play Companyadmin

We create lots of unique and different soft play frames to fit our clients needs, and with each iteration and change, we find ourselves with new fully developed designs that go into our brochure.

With 2023 being one of our best years creating indoor soft play designs, our catalogue is now larger than ever.

Discover New Brochure

Within the brochure you can find references to complete soft play installations within the following sectors:

  • Trampoline Parks
  • FEC’s
  • Urban Activity Centres
  • Farm parks
  • Indoor Playgrounds

We have also dedicated some space to some design concepts that show what could be done should there be an unlimited budget with one of our clients, something that will capture the curiosity for others to follow.

 

There is also some dedicated Strike Arena installations from Louisiana in USA, to our country of the UK.

Finally, there is a small breakdown of some of the equipment that can go into play frames from an iconic drop slide to a giant volcano slide.

 

With a whole lot to see within this catalogue we hope you find it of use and with our design department we hope to speak soon to create something truly unique for yo

It’s our mission to elevate the world of play, and make play more fulfilling, more energetic and more engaging, and it’s that mission that’s at the forefront of everything we do – we’re not willing to rest on our laurels, and we’re always keen to go bigger and better.

When you work with us, you can expect that approach – we aren’t just going to design by numbers.  We’ll go above and beyond to understand your target market, work out exactly what’ll best suit your space, and then deliver something that’ll give you the best possible result.

And if that sounds good to you, then we should have a conversation – email us at info@theplaycompany.co.uk or give us a call on 01548 521 197 and we’ll find a good time to talk it through.

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Simply add a few details below and we will forward our brochure to you:

Work and play hard, at the same time

Posted on by The Play Companyadmin

As you can imagine, at The Play Company, we don’t always find it easy to separate work and play.

But what we realised some time ago is that that’s no bad thing.

It’s our mission to create things that help kids play, use their imaginations and get and stay active.

And in order to do that effectively, we’ve got to get into more of a childish mindset.  

That’s our excuse anyway.

This week, we had the perfect opportunity to do just that, with our pumpkin carving competition.

The competition was fierce, the creativity off the scale, and the end results well worth seeing.

As you can see, when it comes to design, our skills are not limited to play frames – give us a gigantic orange fruit (or is it a vegetable?!) and we’ll turn it into something well worth looking at.

Full disclosure, we don’t spend all of our time carving up pumpkins and Googling templates for the best possible Halloween decorations, but we do think deeply about what will resonate most with your target market.

It’s our mission to elevate the world of play, and make play more fulfilling, more energetic and more engaging, and it’s that mission that’s at the forefront of everything we do – we’re not willing to rest on our laurels, and we’re always keen to go bigger and better.

When you work with us, you can expect that approach – we aren’t just going to design by numbers.  We’ll go above and beyond to understand your target market, work out exactly what’ll best suit your space, and then deliver something that’ll give you the best possible result.

And if that sounds good to you, then we should have a conversation – email us at info@theplaycompany.co.uk or give us a call on 01548 521 197 and we’ll find a good time to talk it through.

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Download our brochure:

Simply add a few details below and we will forward our brochure to you:

What you need to know about sensory areas in your indoor playground, leisure attraction or soft play centre.

Posted on by The Play Companyadmin

In the world of indoor playgrounds, leisure attractions, and soft play centres, creating a captivating and engaging environment is key to drawing in families, making sure they have a memorable experience, and getting them to come back again and again.

And as the world moves on and matures, more and more people are recognising the need to cater for the whole spectrum of children, including those with specific needs.

One area that’s critical to consider for any leisure attraction is a sensory area – these cater specifically to the sensory needs of children and promote their cognitive development; they’re particularly beneficial for children with developmental disabilities or difficulties with learning or sensory processing.

In this blog, we delve into the world of sensory areas, exploring three essential components: Bubble Tubes, Infinity Wall Panels, and Infinity Floor Pads.

Bubble Tubes: Passive Bubbles or Reactively Sensational

Bubble Tubes have gained immense popularity in indoor play areas due to their ability to provide both passive and reactive sensory experiences.

These mesmerising tubes can vary in size and function, but their core purpose remains the same: to captivate children with the beauty of bubbles and sound.

Passive Bubbles

Bubble Tubes often feature a continuous flow of bubbles that gently rise through a water-filled column. This passive sensory experience is soothing and captivating, creating a calming ambiance within the play area. It’s particularly beneficial for children who may need a break from the more active elements of the playground or for those who simply enjoy watching the bubbles float by.

Reactive Sensation

Some Bubble Tubes take the sensory experience to a different level by incorporating interactive features. Reactive Sensation tubes respond to sound, movement, or touch, making them dynamic and engaging for children of all ages. 

For instance, as children laugh, clap, or speak, the bubbles might react in a specific way, creating a delightful interactive display that encourages communication and sensory exploration.

Infinity Wall Panels: Interactive and Enchanting

Imagine a wall that can change colours at the touch of a button and reflect the internal LEDs to create a larger-than-life, ever-evolving masterpiece – that’s exactly what you get when you enter the world of Infinity Wall Panels, where visual stimulation takes centre stage.

Changing Colours

One of the most enchanting features of Infinity Wall Panels is their ability to change colours instantly. Children can experiment with different hues, creating their own magical world and learning about colour-mixing along the way. This interactive aspect sparks their creativity and provides an opportunity for self-expression.

Reflective Wonder

Infinity Wall Panels use mirrors and LEDs to create an illusion of endless space. When children view themselves in the panels, they see an expansive, kaleidoscopic image that captures their imagination. This not only makes them feel larger than life but also helps improve spatial awareness and self-recognition.

Infinity Floor Pads: Space-Saving Sensory Delight

While Infinity Wall Panels offer a visually stimulating experience, Infinity Floor Pads complement them by providing a tactile and exploratory sensory adventure. 

These floor-based sensory pads are particularly welcoming for babies and toddlers who are crawling or just beginning to walk.

Tactile Exploration

Infinity Floor Pads feature a soft, responsive surface that encourages tactile exploration. Babies and toddlers can touch, crawl, or sit on the pads, feeling the texture beneath their fingertips. This sensory experience helps develop fine motor skills and sensory awareness.

Space-Saving Solution

Unlike larger sensory installations, Infinity Floor Pads are space-efficient, making them a versatile addition to any indoor play area. They can be strategically placed to create sensory zones that cater to different age groups, ensuring that every child can enjoy a tailored sensory experience.

Your next step on your sensory area journey

Incorporating sensory areas into your indoor playground, leisure attraction, or soft play center is a surefire way to enhance the overall experience for children and their families.

Bubble Tubes, Infinity Wall Panels, and Infinity Floor Pads offer a range of sensory experiences, from passive relaxation to interactive wonder, catering to a wide spectrum of ages and developmental stages.

By integrating these sensory elements, you can create a dynamic and inclusive play environment that not only entertains but also fosters sensory development, creativity, and social interaction among children.

If you’re designing a new indoor play space or looking to revamp an existing one, sensory areas are now a pretty much essential part of the picture – if you’d like to talk about how you can incorporate sensory areas, give us a call on 01548 521197, or fill in the form on this page and we’ll be happy to talk through some options with you.

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What is a Strike Arena?

Posted on by The Play Companyadmin

Wondering what a Strike Arena is?  You’re not alone.  The popularity of this leisure phenomenon has grown rapidly in recent years, and for good reason: people love it.

But what IS it?

At its heart, it’s a leisure activity, which fits perfectly in a indoor play centre, entertainment centre or trampoline park.

Participants run up, down and all around to try and touch coloured pods – the more pods of the right colour you can touch, the better.

Standing in the way of you getting all the pods are obstacles – lots of them – so it’s not as straightforward as just running around, touching a few pods and putting your feet up.

Strike Arena is a team game too, so there’s a real competitive element to it, and there’s a time frame as well, which adds an extra edge to the game.

And because speed is a key part of the game, it helps your customers get active, ticking the health and fitness box.

Who is a Strike Arena for?

For everyone, pretty much.

Clearly it fits perfectly into a soft play-style context, but it’s just at home as an additional revenue stream in an entertainment centre too.

As a result, there are a wide range of target customers, from children enjoying a birthday party, through to corporates having an away day or a team building exercise.

How much space does it take up?

As much or as little as you want – there are 18 different obstacles/challenges to choose from rope climbs to ball pools, and you can pick the ones right for you and your target customer.

These challenges can then be arranged within any sort of frame you want – if space is at a premium, you can build up rather than across.

Check out our case study from Boost Leicester if you want a deep dive into a real one we have built!

Why consider a Strike Arena?

  • Appeal to lots of different demographics, from kids to corporates
  • Increase dwell-time and spend-per-head, with another fantastic feature at your premises
  • Add an additional revenue stream, with the option of ‘pay to play’
  • Keep moving with the times, giving your customers what they want and staying relevant.

Coming to IAPPA Vienna?

Interested in the idea of Strike Arena and planning on attending IAPPA Vienna?

You’re in luck – we’re in Vienna too, and we’re bringing a Strike Arena with us, so you can try it out for yourself.

Make sure you pop along to The Play Company’s stand at IAPPA, but before you do that, let’s schedule some time to talk things through at the show – click HERE to schedule an appointment at IAPPA.

(If you’re not going to be at the show, click the WhatsApp button to chat to us now, or pick up the phone and call us on (+44) 1548 521197.)

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Interview with Jurate: Designing Innovative Trade Show Stands

Posted on by Krystal Blackwell

Welcome to our Q&A session with Jurate, our talented designer who specialises in creating our captivating trade show stands. In this interview, Jurate sheds light on the software she employs, the unique features of this year’s trade show stand, and the logistics involved in creating a play frame for a Family Entertainment Center (FEC). 

Additionally, she shares her enthusiasm for attending trade shows like IAAPA. 

Read on to discover the creative process behind our trade show stands.

Q: What software goes into creating a stand for a trade show?

A: We utilise SolidWorks for designing and generating manufacturing plans. Subsequently, Unreal Engine comes into play for rendering our concepts, bringing them to life with stunning visualisations.

Q: How does this stand differ from others that have been created in the past?

A: This year, our stand breaks new ground by incorporating three small strike arena units instead of a single play frame. This innovative arrangement adds a fresh dimension to our presentation, creating a distinct visual impact and enhancing attendee engagement.

By incorporating and making these changes to what we have used before we are able to visually show attendees how things work, as opposed to showing images, videos or a verbal explanation.

Q: How does this differ from creating a frame that would be used in a FEC?

A: The design is meticulously tailored to accommodate limited space while still faithfully representing the concept of our interactive Strike Arena. The practicality of quick assembly and dismantling is a key consideration during the design phase. Moreover, the play units can be repurposed and configured to suit spaces of various sizes and shapes, offering flexible options for FEC installations.

Q: What are you most excited about when going to trade shows like IAAPA?

A: Attending trade shows like IAAPA fuels my excitement to explore the latest industry trends and innovations. It provides an invaluable opportunity to establish new connections and partnerships, enabling us to enhance our product offerings and deliver cutting-edge solutions to our valued customers.

Thank you, Jurate, for sharing your insights and expertise. We are excited to unveil our exceptional trade show stand and connect with industry professionals at upcoming events like IAAPA Vienna 2023. 

Join us at Stand B-1401, and together, we’ll craft a play environment that captivates imaginations, promotes active fun, and leaves a lasting impression on visitors of all ages. Whether you’re a business owner seeking to enhance your entertainment offerings or an investor interested in the growing soft play market, our team is excited to connect with you at IAAPA Vienna 2023.

Let’s make playtime extraordinary! We look forward to meeting you at the event.

Unforgettable Summer Fun at Hobbledown with AIP

Posted on by Krystal Blackwell

As you may know, we are renowned for the adventurous indoor play spaces, and were recently invited to one of our most enchanting, Hobbledown, a family adventure park, for the Association of Indoor Play (AIP) summer social. This invitation holds special significance as we constructed Hobbledown’s Soft Play area in June of 2022….. (you can read our case study here)

……AIP, a not-for-profit organisation, plays a vital role in representing and advocating for the Indoor Play Sector, encompassing various aspects such as Indoor Play, Role Play, and Baby Play. 

Let’s delve into the significance of this event and explore how The Play Company’s expertise continues to shape the world of indoor play.

The Play Company's Expertise in Indoor Play:

With a commitment to creating imaginative and engaging play environments, The Play Company has established itself as a leader in the indoor play industry. Our dedication to innovation and quality is evident in every project we have undertaken. The construction of Hobbledown’s Soft Play area stands as a testament to this exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Hobbledown and the AIP Summer Social:

Hobbledown, located in Hounslow, England, is a unique family adventure park that offers a range of activities and attractions for children of all ages. As part of their commitment to providing a memorable experience, Hobbledown partnered with us at The Play Company to develop a remarkable Soft Play area, something that at the time was our biggest and most venturesome project to date. This collaboration brought together Hobbledown’s enchanting world and stories with our expertise of soft play, resulting in a space that sparks imagination, encourages active play and continues to tell a story to go alongside the book and characters that hobbledown had written for kids to embark through at this play space.

The AIP Summer Social is an annual event organised by the Association of Indoor Play. It serves as a platform for industry professionals, operators, and suppliers to connect, share knowledge, and discuss the latest trends in the indoor play sector. This year, Hobbledown was chosen as the venue for this highly anticipated gathering, making it even more special for us at The Play Company.

Significance of the AIP Summer Social:

The AIP Summer Social holds immense importance for both The Play Company and the Indoor Play Sector as a whole. It provides an opportunity for industry professionals to come together, exchange ideas, and explore new possibilities. By attending this event, we were able to showcase our expertise and learn from other industry leaders, further enhancing our own understanding of the evolving needs and preferences of children and families.

Through active participation in the AIP Summer Social, we were able to strengthen our relationships within the Indoor Play Sector. Engaging with fellow professionals, share in their experiences, and gain valuable insights into the latest advancements in the industry. Such networking opportunities are essential for us staying at the forefront of innovation and ensuring that we continue to deliver exceptional play spaces.

Conclusion:

Our invitation to the AIP Summer Social at Hobbledown was a testament to our expertise and recognition within the Indoor Play Sector. This event serves as a platform for industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and share their passion for creating engaging play environments. By being a part of this gathering, we were able to showcase our remarkable work at Hobbledown’s Soft Play area while also learning from other industry leaders. 

Introducing Esther: Crafting Buzz-Worthy Designs for Bee-Themed Soft Play

Posted on by Krystal Blackwell

Step into a world where imagination takes flight and children can embark on buzzing adventures, meet our newest indoor play installation for babies and toddlers at Mini Meadows. 

At this beloved site, we’ve prided ourselves on creating this captivating soft play frame that transports young minds to fantastic farms, and behind the scenes of this, one talented individual played a crucial role in bringing this magical environment to life – Esther, our exceptional graphic designer.

In the below, we will discuss with Esther the creative process behind the artwork at this one of a kind indoor soft play.

How did you incorporate bee-themed graphics into the design of children's soft play frames?

We tried to incorporate as many bee-themed graphics across different parts of the frame, from wall boards to floor pads. We wanted the frame to be a celebration of all things bee-related, so we used a variety of graphics to represent the different aspects of beekeeping such as honey, beehives and meadows.

Can you discuss any specific challenges or considerations you faced when designing the wonderful bee-themed graphics, and how you overcame them?

We wanted to create illustrations and graphics that were simple and contemporary, rather than relying on bee-themed clichés. We drew inspiration from simple contemporary graphics and geometric shapes that can be found within the café.

How do you ensure that the bee-themed graphics align with the branding and theme of Mini Meadows?

We knew that the frame needed to complement the natural look and feel of the café, so we used muted earthy tones and simple shapes that reflected the geometric design of the light fittings.

Where do you tend to draw inspiration from when creating graphics that are displayed within a play frame?

Inspiration can come from anywhere, but I find that I am particularly drawn to sites like Pinterest. Pinterest is a great resource for exploring a wide variety of visual material, from children’s books and packaging to spatial and interior design. It helps me to spark my creativity and to imagine and explore new ideas.

We are grateful to have Esther as a valuable member of our team, infusing our soft play frames with a touch of graphical magic and wonder. Her commitment to staying informed about the latest trends with themed graphic design ensured that Mini Meadows remains at the forefront of providing an immersive and fun, play experience for children whilst also staying true to the original client brief.

As we bid farewell to this inspiring interview, we invite you, our readers, to visit Mini Meadows and witness firsthand the incredible work of Esther. Immerse yourself in the buzzing wonderlands she has brought to life and experience the joy, laughter, and excitement that children await within this bee-themed soft play frame.

How to create your own indoor Soft Play Area – A Step By Step Guide

Posted on by Krystal Blackwell

Introduction:

If you’re thinking about creating your own indoor soft play area, you’re in exactly the right place.

And we’ve got good news – indoor soft play areas are continuing to rise in popularity; children and families love them for the secure and entertaining setting they can provide, the memories they can help make, and the way they can tire the kids out too!

In this post, we’ll walk you through every step of creating an entertaining soft play area that grabs kids’ imaginations and give them hours of amusement. 

Step 1: Planning and Design

Before you get started on the actual construction of your soft play area, the first step is to properly plan and design it. 

Consider the available space, target age group, and the theme you want to incorporate.

Once you’ve put those considerations down on paper, the next step is to brainstorm ideas and consider several layouts that make the most of the space available, promote flow (so the kids can easily get from one thing to the next), and ensure safety. 

Once you’ve got some ideas, we have a team of professional soft play designers who can help you create a customised space tailored to your specific requirements.

Step 2: Choose High-Quality Soft Play Equipment

Investing in high-quality soft play equipment is essential for ensuring the safety and durability of your play area. 

Creating a soft play area isn’t cheap, so it’s vital that your area stands the test of time and enables you to continue generating revenue, without you constantly having to replace or repair.

All our soft play equipment is made by us, right here in the UK; it’s long lasting and hard wearing for all the visitors you hope to attract. 

When you’re thinking about soft play equipment, it’s important to consider a variety of components: slides, climbing structures, ball pits, tunnels, interactive panels, foam shapes and sensory area equipment and so on and so forth. 

Also remember to choose equipment suitable for the age range you’re targeting – it’s no good specifying a load of drop slides if you’re only looking to cater for toddlers.

Step 3: Safety First

Safety is the first and most important consideration in any soft play area. Everything you produce should always be to the EN1176 standards (which we are able to do!).

Prioritise the installation of appropriate safety measures to protect children from potential hazards and regularly inspect equipment to identify any potential hazards and address them promptly.

Step 4: Installation

Once you’ve signed off your design and it’s been manufactured (hopefully by us!), it’s time to proceed with the installation. 

Our proven  installation team have put together scores of soft play areas over the years, and we ensure all equipment is securely fastened, any potential risks are mitigated and everything is checked and triple-checked.

A well-executed installation will contribute to the long-term success and safety of your soft play area, so don’t rush it, or cut corners on it.

Step 5: Creating a Captivating Atmosphere

The ambiance and aesthetics of your soft play area play a crucial role in attracting and engaging children and adults.

Incorporate a themed colour palette, themed elements, and eye-catching signage to create an immersive and visually appealing environment. 

It’s also well worth considering the addition of soft lighting, playful music, and interactive features to enhance the overall experience. Incorporating unique and imaginative details will make your soft play area stand out from the crowd. You can check out some of our themed builds here (link to another blog post talking about our favourite themed soft play builds)

Step 6: Maintenance and Regular Inspections

Once you’re up and running, regular maintenance and inspections are essential to guaranteeing the longevity and safety of your soft play area. 

Create a maintenance routine to look for signs of wear and tear, missing parts, or harmed equipment, and stick to it.

To preserve hygiene, take care to promptly address any problems and do thorough cleanings. Staff employees should receive safety and hygiene training and be urged to alert you if anything needs to be addressed.

Ready to create your indoor soft play area?

Whether you’re looking to create your indoor soft play area in an entertainment centre, standalone location, or trampoline park, it’s an exciting time, and hopefully the above advice will help you to create the right soft play area for you.

Plan carefully, choose quality equipment, prioritise safety, and you’ll ensure an engaging atmosphere for endless joy and adventure. 

Remember, finally, safety comes first! 

Stay proactive with maintenance and inspections to ensure a delightful and secure environment. Get ready to see smiles and hear laughter as children enjoy fantastic playtime adventures. Start building your dream soft play area now!

Get in touch with us now to find out how we can help you create the soft play you’ve been looking for. No matter the size, we are able to create a bespoke soft play for you!

Ready to build something amazing? Contact our team: 01548 521197

The Play Company International Limited based in South Devon was established in 1998. We provide soft play maintenance, cleaning services and play area sales to customers throughout the UK.

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