Imagine colorful ribbons of seating arching through the air. That’s Wainwright Park in Kingswood. It is more than just a park. It is a testament to community spirit and innovative design.
Wainwright Park stands as a playful landmark. Penrith City Council created it to support community events. They wanted to improve the parkland’s comfort and image. The Streets as Shared Spaces program helped make it happen. This program strengthens the amenity, accessibility and economic vitality of high streets and their surroundings.
David Forward is a Landscape Architect with Penrith City Council. He said the ChillOUT Trees were an ideal solution. They provide shade, power and lighting. This encourages people to stay and enjoy the space.
Street Furniture Australia’s designers collaborated with Mistafog. Together they integrated a custom misting system into the ChillOUT Trees. This cools down visitors on hot summer days. It makes Wainwright Park a refreshing escape.
The ribbon bench uses Mall Slim Benches and Curved Slim Benches as a base. Custom sections curve vertically. This gives the illusion of seating running throughout the park. It looks like it is arching underground and into the air.
David Forward noted the custom ribbon seating is a delightful landmark. It supports events and park users. The NSW Government funded the Streets as Shared Spaces project. Street Furniture Australia developed unique solutions for it.
The benches complement the playground space. Shady seating areas feature Forum Seats and Low Tables. They are in a matching palette. DuraBright fade-resistant Bondi Blue, Brilliant Yellow and Jaybird Blue color the scene. Pearl White frames complete the look.
A local Penrith girl discovered Wainwright Park during COVID. She had driven past it many times. It sits on the corner of Bringelly Road and Orth Street in Kingswood.
The park provides a wide variety of options. There is sunshade. There are places for parents to sit. A public book library and a ‘tin bin’ or food library are available. People can leave what they can and take what they need.
Playground equipment includes slides, monkey bars and swings. Ample sunshade is provided. There is a good range of options for different ages. A pretend cafe is under one platform. An abacus sits under another. It is surrounded by grass. There is even a community garden of sorts.
Parking can be tricky. The side street tends to be full. You might have to park on Bringelly Road. Don’t forget to admire the animals on the fence around the park.
Forward says the project has had a positive impact. Wainwright Park is a welcoming and comfortable space for all. So come, explore and enjoy this unique park.