Play Park

In the heart of the Bay of Plenty, Tauranga Crossing Play Park stands as more than just a shopping destination; it’s a vibrant community hub designed to cater to every member of the family. This popular attraction underwent a significant refresh, a commercial retail fitout entrusted to the expert hands of Total Fitouts Bay of Plenty. A testament to this commitment is its much-loved Play Park, a space where children can explore, imagine, and expend energy while their parents take a well-deserved break. The challenge was immense: a tight timeframe and the high expectations of a community that cherished the existing space. The result, a meticulously executed commercial fitout, is a triumph of expertise, a space that is both a visual delight and a testament to the power of thoughtful, expedited design.

A Triumph of Commercial Fit-Out Expertise

The Play Park’s successful re-opening was the result of a highly collaborative effort. The creative vision for the refresh, including the design, was expertly crafted by Tailor Inc, who also managed the tenancy coordination and RDM processes for Tauranga Crossing. Total Fitouts Bay of Plenty’s key input was working closely with the designers on the construction methodology, value engineering, and seamless project delivery. This partnership was a perfect example of their ability to leverage extensive experience in construction to bring a high-quality, aesthetically pleasing design to life under a constrained timeline. By focusing on well-considered construction methods and value engineering, the team ensured every detail was perfect, blending Tailor Inc’s creative design with practical durability to deliver an enhanced and appealing space that met the client’s needs.

A Design Rooted in Nature and Imagination

The core design philosophy of the revitalised Play Park is a celebration of nature, community, and whimsical fantasy. Drawing inspiration from the local environment and a playful, imaginative aesthetic, this commercial retail fitout has resulted in a carefully curated world of adventure. The colour palette is a striking and harmonious mix of natural tones, with warm wood-effect panelling and a calming green seating area, contrasted with vibrant pops of colour from the play equipment itself. This balance creates an environment that is both stimulating for children and relaxing for adults.

A key design element that immediately captures the eye is the bespoke, sculptural tree in the centre of the play area. Far from a simple decorative piece, this “tree” serves multiple functions. Its broad, leaf-like canopies create a sense of shelter and intimacy, while the trunk doubles as a functional bookshelf and seating area. This brilliant integration of form and function highlights the Total Fitouts team’s ability to bring these custom solutions, that are both beautiful and practical, to life. The branches extend outwards, offering a playful, nature-inspired element that invites children to gather around its base for storytelling or quiet play. This central feature anchors the entire space, creating a natural focal point that draws the eye and encourages interaction.

Thoughtful Details: From Flooring to Fencing

The flooring is another example of the project’s thoughtful commercial design. A large portion of the floor is covered in a soft, synthetic grass, creating a safe and inviting area for children to play on. This is cleverly integrated with a smooth, light-toned floor that features a pattern of organic, grey-hued shapes resembling stepping stones or paw prints. This unique design element not only adds visual interest but also helps to delineate different play zones without the need for harsh barriers. It guides children through the space, encouraging them to move and explore.

The play equipment itself has been carefully selected to promote imaginative and physical play. The images show a variety of engaging pieces, including a wooden train-like structure labelled “TAURIKO TOOT,” a nod to the local area’s heritage and a perfect vehicle for role-playing adventures. Rocking animals, a soft-play slide, and a collection of multi-coloured, oversized cushions offer a range of play opportunities for different ages and abilities. The equipment is a mix of natural materials, like wood, and durable, brightly coloured plastics, ensuring it is both aesthetically pleasing and able to withstand the rigours of constant use. The design ensures a safe play environment with rounded edges and soft surfaces, giving parents peace of mind.

The perimeter of the Play Park is defined by a low, custom-designed fence. This fence, featuring an intricate, laser-cut pattern of intertwined branches, is more than just a barrier. It acts as a visual connection to the central tree element and the overall nature-inspired theme, while also providing a clear boundary for the play area. The fence design is elegant and sophisticated, demonstrating that a space for children can still be a part of the mall’s overarching, modern aesthetic. The images also reveal a background of warm, vertical wood panelling, a recurring motif that softens the space and adds a layer of texture and warmth.

The Magic of Playful and Practical Lighting

The lighting is another crucial aspect of the refresh. The commercial retail fitout is illuminated by a combination of practical, recessed strip lighting and a series of whimsical, cloud-shaped light fixtures suspended from the ceiling. The cloud fixtures, with their soft, undulating forms, create a playful and dreamlike atmosphere, perfectly complementing the imaginative nature of the space. This layered approach to lighting ensures the Play Park is bright and welcoming, while also adding a touch of magic.

Behind the Scenes: The Power of Seamless Project Management

Behind the scenes, the success of this project lay in the Total Fitouts Bay of Plenty team’s ability to manage the complexities of a commercial retail fitout. Their expertise in navigating the logistics of a high-traffic environment, coordinating with various suppliers and contractors, and adhering to strict deadlines was paramount. The fact that the Play Park was re-opened on schedule is a testament to their professional project management and commitment to client satisfaction. They were able to deliver a refreshed, vibrant space in collaboration with Tailor Inc, that not only fulfilled the brief but also elevated the entire Tauranga Crossing experience for families.

A Lasting Legacy of Play

In conclusion, the refreshed Tauranga Crossing Play Park is a shining example of how a well-executed commercial retail fitout can transform a space. Total Fitouts Bay of Plenty took on a challenging project with a tight deadline and delivered a space that is both visually stunning and highly functional. By bringing thoughtful design elements—from the central sculptural tree and imaginative flooring to the bespoke fencing and playful lighting—to life with robust construction and efficient project management, they have created a new chapter for the Play Park. It is a space that reflects the mall’s commitment to community and family, offering a safe, engaging, and beautiful environment where children can create memories. This successful refresh ensures that the Tauranga Crossing Play Park will continue to be a cherished destination for years to come.

Looking to refresh your commercial space? Inquire with Total Fitouts NZ today!