PECCI PLAYGROUND



The project is the result of a design competition open to artists, designers, and architects, invited to imagine a new playground to be built in the outdoor spaces of the museum.

This is the site of the collaborative project envisioned by ECÒL with Luca Boscardin, which weaves together the geometric principles of two different architectures, the original building by Italo Gamberini and the more recent addition by Nio Architects, to create a unique playground: a new vibrant space, dense, open to interaction and play. Within this realm, geometries converge to form a canvas akin to that of a fantastical creature.




Three-dimensional elements, designed with Luca Boscardin, rise from the ground, hinting at various parts of the creature’s anatomy — the mouth, antennas, claws, a scar, and the tail. This abstract design transcends conventional notions of playground equipment, presenting instead hands-on sculptures that beckon children to unleash their creativity and engage in boundless interaction.





These elements, devoid of predetermined functions such as slides or swings, serve as catalysts for personal expression and interpretation, fostering a profound connection between the young audience, the museum, and the artistic ethos it embodies. Dubbed L’Anima(le) del museo, these playful installations transform the museum grounds into an expansive sculptural park, extending its reach beyond physical confines and nurturing a culture of public engagement and participation.

Nestled within the dynamic spaces of the Luigi Pecci Center for Contemporary Art in Prato, Italy, a vibrant array of geometric forms dance with colorful lines, breaks, and curves, breathing life into the courtyard. Positioned along the entrance pathway, between the original structure of the museum and its newest addition, emerges a new playground designed for children and teenagers alike.