Description
OBI is monumental, but in one direction. It runs 27.8 m long and rises to 11.8 m, yet is only 12.8 m wide, so the impact area it demands is 31.8 by 16.8 m rather than the near-square footprint most structures of this scale require. On a promenade, a linear park, a riverside walk or a strip of reclaimed land, that geometry is the difference between a landmark installation and a scheme that does not fit.
Monumental scale on a narrow site
- 27.8 m of continuous play: children travel the length of the structure through a multi-level network of nets, platforms and bridges.
- Only 16.8 m of impact width required, against more than 22 m for a comparable square structure.
- Height reaching 11.8 m, so the installation is legible from a distance along the axis it occupies — the view down a promenade rather than across an open park.
- Free height of fall of 3.0 m throughout, because the dense net interrupts the fall path at every level.
Materials and construction
Reinforced stainless steel structural posts carry a network of 18 mm polyamide rope with a braided galvanised steel core, cut-resistant and UV-stable, assembled with aluminium and stainless steel connectors. Decorative elements are impact and weather resistant HPL panel. Foundations are high-strength concrete at 1.0 m depth, and heavy lifting equipment is required for installation. On a narrow site the crane position and the delivery route usually need to be planned along the same axis as the structure, which should be resolved before the works are programmed.
Planning a project at this scale
Around 534 m2 of impact-attenuating surface tested for 3.0 m; a multi-day installation with lifting; and an annual main inspection requiring access equipment for the high-level rope terminations. All three belong in the business case from the outset. Where a scheme combines several large items, see our notes on bespoke playgrounds.
Technical specification
| Reference | LIF-OBI-1346 |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 27.8 m (L) x 12.8 m (W) x 11.8 m (H) |
| Age range | 3 to 14 years |
| Free height of fall | 3.0 m |
| Safety area | 31.8 x 16.8 m |
| Frame | Reinforced stainless steel posts |
| Rope | 18 mm polyamide with braided galvanised steel core, cut and UV resistant |
| Finish | Stainless steel and aluminium connectors; HPL decorative panels |
| Foundation depth | 1.0 m, high-strength concrete |
| Standard | EN 1176, certificate issued by an independent certification body |
| Price | On request — project quotation within 24 business hours |
Frequently asked questions
Can OBI be installed in phases along its length?
No. It is a single structural system and is installed as one operation. Where funding is phased, install OBI first and add smaller satellite items later, since the surfacing and access works happen once.
How does it compare with our other monumental structure?
Both reach 11.8 m. OBI is long and narrow, needing 31.8 by 16.8 m; the alternative is broader, needing 31.7 by 22.1 m. Choose on the shape of the ground you have, not on the area alone.
What wind and exposure considerations apply?
The structural design accounts for wind loading and is reflected in the 1.0 m foundations. On an exposed waterfront, confirm the site exposure category with us at design stage so the foundation design is verified for your location.
If you are planning a landmark installation along a promenade or a linear park, send us your site plan, access route and funding timetable, and we will return a full costed proposal within 24 business hours.











