Abstract

Play can be considered as a basic need of a child. The quality of play spaces impacts the quality of play, and therefore affects children’s mental growth and development. To enhance children’s cognitive development, it is essential that play equipment stimulates sensory engagement. This multi-sensory approach is critical as it enriches the learning experience and supports various aspects of developmental growth. Therefore, it is crucial for children to be immersed in environments that stimulate all seven senses: vision, hearing, touch, taste, smell, kinaesthetic, and balance to promote their learning. 

Urbanisation changed the way people live in cities, including the way children play and develop. Children in cities are less likely to be exposed to nurturing environments, lacking the ability to play independently and creatively. Melbourne Central Business District (CBD) is an example when the city was designed without children in mind. With no playgrounds available within the CBD, there is a significant limitation on children’s exposure to sensory stimuli, reducing opportunities for exploration and creative play. 

This research investigates how children aged two to seven years use the seven senses to learn from their surroundings and how urban interior design solutions can enhance this learning. The analysis focuses on the use of senses in space perception, supported by developmental theories and research on children’s play. Through a comprehensive literature review, playground equipment observation and explorations, I have identified design elements inspired by the seven senses, which have been transformed into urban interior concepts for children supported by research on various types of play. Following my research and analysis, I designed Urban Sensorium, which is a network of sensory-engaging urban interiors for children across Melbourne CBD. Each of the playgrounds is integrated into the existing urban context, making the city more child friendly and allowing the network to grow with the city.