Mag. Jörg Ehtreiber
Weiz Energy World – Funergy Park
The hard court at the school centre was mainly utilised as a recreation area, especially during breaks, and less for sporting activities. This area was upgraded through the construction of an energy experience and café area and put to meaningful use. As a result, not only do school classes now have the opportunity to develop and experience various energy-related activities, but afternoon and especially weekend visitors can also use this area. This created a recreation and leisure offering in the city centre that did not previously exist for families in Weiz.
The outdoor play area provides experiences with different forms of energy for children of all ages. By its design, it stimulates the imagination and inner spirit of research while providing a safe environment in which children can gain experience. Younger children in particular enjoy discovering hidden nooks and crannies. In such an environment, they feel safe and yet free to experiment and discover things for themselves. Adult visitors have the opportunity to relax in the café area and still keep an eye on their children.
The outdoor play area was designed in such a way that it is mostly barrier-free and visitors in wheelchairs can perform activities or walk a few metres using handrails.
Through its design, the outdoor play area appeals to many senses and encourages visitors to experiment and try things out. The type of design makes the outdoor area interesting and invites the visitor to explore and master this construction: there is always something new to discover, and the design encourages individual initiatives and alternatives for play. This means that children can try out new things even after repeated visits.