Pier 26 Science Playground: Play Learning and Design by the Hudson

In 2024, the Pier 26 Science Playground opened in Hudson River Park, New York. This innovative space combines play, learning, and sculptural design. The project was developed in collaboration with landscape architecture studio OLIN, Hudson River Park Trust, and MONSTRUM Playgrounds, aiming to create an iconic playground inspired by the Hudson River’s marine life, while complementing the future Estuarium, a science center focused on river ecology.

The design features two large sturgeon-shaped sculptures that serve as interactive play elements. Beyond being fun climbing structures, they allow children to explore and learn about the anatomy and habitat of these fish in an intuitive and engaging way. Families can enjoy a safe, educational environment while the sturgeons become a visual and symbolic highlight of the park.

For the construction of these structures, Monstrum selected Garnica Duraply 40 mm, a material particularly suited for large-scale, high-demand projects. Duraply offers structural strength, dimensional stability, and versatility for shaping complex curves, enabling the creation of safe and durable sculptures. Its smooth, uniform finish adds an aesthetic quality that blends perfectly with the surrounding environment, highlighting the creativity of the design. Thanks to these qualities, the playground’s sculptures are solid, safe, and visually striking.

The result is a playground that combines functionality, aesthetics, and educational value. Since its opening, the Pier 26 Science Playground has become a landmark in Hudson River Park, offering children the opportunity to learn about marine life interactively while families enjoy a high-quality recreational environment. Using Duraply and Garnica materials ensures these structures maintain their integrity and appearance over time, meeting the durability and design standards required for projects like this.

If you are planning a creative, educational, or innovative design project, contact Garnica. We can help turn your ideas into durable, visually impactful structures that combine functionality, safety, and sustainability.