The playscape near the Kamal Theatre in Kazan is the final touch of the comprehensive Kaban lake embankment redevelopment.
The concept of the site’s redevelopment is rooted in a natural narrative. Recognizable images of local fauna are integrated into the design code of the playscape. Great crested grebes and grey herons can be seen during a walk along the lakeside embankment, and then encountered again at the playscape, where children can interact with them. There are also subtle details that gently spark curiosity about the ecosystem — footprints of local birds are embedded in the pavement, and frogs are “hiding” in a quiet inlet.
In addition to the theme of nature, the location near the New Kamal theatre affects the visual identity and the spirit of play. The theatre’s dynamic, geometric glass-and-metal façade — visible from all points along the embankment — sets the tone for the entire waterfront. That is why the playscape design is based on discreet natural colors and materials. During play, visitors become performers. The play transforms into theatrical acts, and the space itself serves as a stage. It is not only exciting to play here, but also fascinating to observe.
There are no conventional slides or swings here; instead, there are hills, bridges and tunnels, flying birds, a long water channel, fountains, a musical trail, and an explorer’s path. At the same time, there are spaces for more meditative activities: sifting pebbles, playing musical instruments, observing light and the movement of the wind. Water features, secret paths and opportunities to interact with the natural elements makes the space a center of attraction for visitors of all ages, where everyone can find a place to play, experiment, and relax. Toddlers explore the world here through touch, experimenting with water, pebbles, and tactile wooden elements. Older children climb the hilly landscape, play among the water splashes, create the music. Teenagers “fly” and take a risk on steel birds. Adults join in the fun with their children and relax in the shade of lush plantings enveloped in mist.
Great attention has been given to greenery, composed of resilient native species. The planting concept echoes the overall embankment redevelopment strategy. The playscape blends seamlessly into its surroundings and become an integral part of them. A tall hill with dense plantings of shrubs, deciduous and coniferous trees serves as a natural buffer. Moisture-loving trees, shrubs, and flower beds surrounds the water play areas.
In the evening, the space reveals a different character. It seems to quiet down, continuing to live in new rhythms: night lighting comes on, creating a mysterious atmosphere and inviting visitors to observe the shadows, reflections, and beams of spotlights illuminating tree trunks and drifting mist.
Project Data:
Landscape Architecture: AFA
Client: Main Investment and Construction Department of the Republic of Tatarstan
Other designers involved in the design of the landscape: ArсhDesant (the full concept of Kaban lake embankment near the New Kamal Theatre)
Design year: 2024
Year Built: 2024-2025
Photographer: Nailya Sabirova
Manufacturer of playground equipment: Richter Spielgeräte
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