A Redwood Play Area – Designed for Explorers

At Saklan, we know that play is more than just fun — it’s where children test their limits, use their imaginations, and connect with each other. This year, we’re taking a big step forward in making our campus play spaces as inspiring as the learning that happens here every day.

With the help of Bay Area landscape architect Ron Lutsko, we are transforming our redwood grove into a natural play area designed for creativity and adventure. While we are still in the early phases of the design process, below are some of the elements we are considering.

• Tree platforms that give the feel of small “treehouses”
• Raised plank walks that wind between the trees
• Log steppers and climbing features to challenge balance and coordination
• A chalkboard tucked into the grove for drawing, writing, or group games

The design makes use of the existing redwoods, while adding new ones to create a Redwood Grove.  The design intends to weave new and natural play elements into the beauty of the grove. Children will be able to climb, balance, imagine, and create — all while being surrounded by nature.

This project is only possible because of our community’s generosity. At our 70th Anniversary Auction, Saklan families and friends raised over $115,000 through the Fund-A-Need. That collective gift is helping us reimagine what play can look like at Saklan.

The design is still evolving, and we’ll continue to gather feedback as we move forward. Our plan is to break ground later this year and open the new play area in the spring. When it opens, it will be more than just a playground — it will be a space where children can take risks, solve problems, and dream big. A place that feels both adventurous and nurturing, where Saklan students can grow together under the trees.

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