ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Snarkitecture's THE PLAYGROUND Opens at National Building Museum

exhibition · 2026-07-04

For the third consecutive summer, design studio Snarkitecture, established by Alex Mustonen and Daniel Arsham, has unveiled an installation called THE PLAYGROUND in the Great Hall of the National Building Museum, which will be accessible until August 30. Chosen in May for the 2026 project, with ZGF serving as the architect of record, this immersive space includes nine interactive areas that delve into the history and advantages of play. Highlights comprise the Dig Pit, Adventure Yard, Climbing Wall, Sport Court, a maze, a seating plateau with slides, and a lounge, along with a popular rope netting obstacle course. Emphasizing sustainability, there are intentions to repurpose components after the event. Previous installations included The Beach (2015) and Fun House (2018). Museum president Aileen Fuchs commended Snarkitecture's innovative designs.

Key facts

  • Snarkitecture's THE PLAYGROUND opens at National Building Museum's Great Hall
  • On view through August 30, 2026
  • Designed by Alex Mustonen and Daniel Arsham of Snarkitecture
  • ZGF is architect of record with Grace Cabrera, John Barbara, Tim Williams
  • Nine activation areas including Dig Pit, Adventure Yard, Climbing Wall, Sport Court
  • Dig Pit uses granulated cork from Maryland
  • Museum plans to repurpose or recycle most elements
  • This is Snarkitecture's third installation at the museum after The Beach (2015) and Fun House (2018)

Entities

Artists

Institutions

  • Snarkitecture
  • National Building Museum
  • ZGF
  • Billionaire Boys Club
  • Bjarke Ingels Group
  • James Corner Field Operations
  • Studio Gang
  • Dezeen

Locations

  • Washington, D.C.
  • United States
  • Maryland
  • Tokyo
  • Japan
  • Bangkok
  • Thailand
  • Miami
  • Washington DC
  • Rome
  • Italy
  • Gloucestershire
  • UK
  • Belgium

Sources