Heritage and Innovation
Playland’s pride is in its history and community. Established in 1928, Playland has provided family fun, adventure, and stories for generations of patrons to experience and share together. As the first planned amusement park ever made in America, Playland paved the way for all successful amusement parks in the United States by creating a prototype that maximizes entertainment and value.
Playland’s success over the last 94 years is based, in part, on its celebration of New York history and culture. With the Hudson River on one side of the park’s 280-acre lot and the Long Island Sound on the other, patrons can enjoy the scenic New York views found on Playland’s boardwalks. This picturesque location and scenery even managed to capture movie producers and musicians; Playland has been featured in the 1988 hit Big (led by Tom Hanks) and was featured in Mariah Carey’s song “Fantasy” in 1995.
With nearly 100 years of being part of Long Island’s residents, it is no surprise that Playland has become part of Long Island history and culture itself. In 1987, Playland was listed as a National Historic Landmark by the National Park Service (which serves under the United States Department of the Interior).
Strategy
In its nearly 100 years of operation, Playland has always strived to have a perfect balance of honoring its history while creating exciting new experiences for its patrons. Taking these core values to heart, GH+A design studio developed the design concept; in turn, KCI WORKS, Eclipse, and Regalia fabricated a design that would continue Playland’s established combination of respecting its history and excitement for the future.
This souvenir shop’s open floorplan and bright colors immediately invite patrons to come in and continue to experience the excitement that is Playland’s staple. The main check out’s circular design allows for a plethora of toys and trinkets to be displayed and catch the eye. While the younger patrons can enjoy the different toys and bright designs, the older patrons can appreciate the art deco design that was incorporated into every element of the design.
Result
GH+A design studio created the new store concept and provided the opportunity to add to Playland’s longstanding history. KCI WORKS, Eclipse, and Regalia collaborated in their efforts to fabricate and install the new design. This new store design has brought excitement and joy to the younger generation of patrons while bringing back fond memories and nostalgia for those that adventured through Playland in their youth.
