City of Markham, Ontario

Boxgrove Community Park

A testament to teamwork, experience, and hardwork, this park became an instant source of community pride and play.

In 2020, Openspace proudly secured an RFP to design and build a new playground for the vibrant Box Grove neighbourhood in Markham. Our initial proposal not only met the client’s requirements but positioned us as the successful proponent for this exciting endeavour.

Key Partners

City of Markham – Vivian Li
NAK Design – Josie Vaughan, Naz Hiyate
Installed – July 2021

Objectives

An exciting project with a clear vision

The goal for this project was clear: To create a junior and senior playspace where inclusive features ensure children of varying abilities can play and engage together.

Process

Truly collaborative design

Through collaboration with the City of Markham and NAK Design, the design evolved through several iterations to more closely align with the project vision. The final concept prioritizes universal inclusivity, incorporating a series of ramps and thoughtfully selected ground-level play features that distinguish the space and enhance accessibility for users of all abilities.

Overcoming site challenges

In July 2021, Openspace began the installation at Boxgrove Community Park for the City of Markham. As with all large-scale playground installations, the project presented unique challenges. The site extended nearly 100 feet in length and incorporated a slope within the design that made it difficult as normal conditions are flat.

Concrete footings were used to accommodate the grade changes, allowing column heights to be adjusted to achieve the required finished elevations. This level of accuracy was particularly important given the use of rubber tile surfacing rather than poured-in-place rubber. While highly durable, rubber tiles offer minimal tolerance for variation, making accurate grading and installation essential.

Planning, combined with our experienced installers, the surfacing and play structures were successfully installed within the existing site conditions, resulting in a finished playground that meets both the design intent and compliance to the current CSA standard.

Adding some important finishing touches

In addition to the playground, two Shadeview shelters were incorporated to enhance comfort and usability throughout the park. A two-tier Echo shelter with ornamental detailing was installed adjacent to the playground, providing an attractive and highly functional shade solution for children and caregivers alike. A mono-slope Echo shelter was strategically positioned over the spectator seating at the soccer pitch, offering protection from sun and weather.

Thoughtfully integrated shade structures like these are essential to creating inclusive, comfortable public spaces—allowing park users to enjoy amenities safely and for longer periods throughout the day.

Key Features

A few of the highlights

Ramp Access & Universal Design

Three slides accessible via ramps, along with a Mobile Deck designed specifically for wheelchair users.

Senior User “Wow” Factor

The impressive Citiplex structure, complete with a 12-foot tube slide, provides a thrilling centrepiece for older children.

Ground-Level Activities

The villa provides opportunities for imaginative, social and sensory play—a favourite for the younger children.

Quiet Retreat

Surrounding the structure are eight distinct ground-level elements focused on climbing, spinning, rocking, swinging, and cognitive play, as well as this suspended nest for quiet reflection.

"One of the best parks for kids."

Kiran R.

End Results

A new community favourite

Since its completion, Boxgrove Community Park has received widespread praise. The playground has earned numerous positive Google reviews, been featured on popular playground blogs, and shared extensively across social media. It reflects our commitment to creating innovative play spaces where children of all ages and abilities can explore, play, and grow together—sparking joy, imagination, and meaningful interactions throughout the park.