SALT’s design concept for the William H. Hunter Schoolyard, developed by Mural Arts Restored Spaces Initiative (MARSI) with the Hunter School students is, “A dream, a fantasy, a magical place!”

Improvements to the schoolyard, located in Kensington, create an accessible, inclusive, flexible, and immersive outdoor environment, weaving together play, learning, and recreation for all ages and abilities. SALT designed for multiple opportunities for active and passive play, outdoor learning, imagination, and healthy social interaction. Skill objectives for Playful Learning Landscapes are incorporated into each aspect of the Schoolyard improvements, including content (nature and reading), creative innovation, communication, collaboration, confidence, and critical thinking.

Major components of the schoolyard include an accessible outdoor classroom, a rain garden, an active multi-sport play space, and an urban forest. At-grade sensory gardens, seating, and artificial turf will provide additional opportunities for play and learning.

Client: School District of Philadelphia

Status: Construction Completed 2024

Collaborators: Rodriguez Consulting, LLC