Playrise modular timber playground kit for refugee children debuts in Ethiopia

Playrise, an innovative modular playground system crafted for refugee camps and disaster relief, is set to launch its inaugural pilot at the Aysaita camp in Ethiopia. Established by Alexander Meininger, this initiative was created in collaboration with OMMX architecture studio, Webb Yates engineers, and SetWorks fabricators. The flatpack design features timber beams and panels with circular holes, enabling assembly with simple tools and adaptability over time. Elements include climbing holds, rope bridges, canvas roofs, and hammocks. Insights from field research with displaced populations in Ethiopia and Egypt shaped the design, including experiences from Aysaita, a Palestinian hub in Cairo, and a Sudanese community in Karkar. The prototype employs iroko hardwood for resilience in arid climates. Playrise views play as essential humanitarian infrastructure, providing NGOs with a portable, repairable system that empowers children. The pilot will assess assembly, usage, and maintenance prior to broader implementation.