The renovation and redevelopment of Drachenthal Urban Park, located in the southern part of Hamburg, originates from the iconic concrete dragon play sculpture dating back to the late 1980s, which gave the park its name. Given its aging condition – both structurally and in terms of play value – the neighborhood council decided to demolish the structure, seizing the opportunity to redesign and revitalize the entire park.
At the heart of the project is a new wooden dragon sculpture, resembling a deconstructed origami figure, developed in collaboration with the company Kukuk. Positioned in a large clearing among existing trees, this structure forms the focal point of the new playground. It is surrounded by a series of wooden platforms, ropes, and nets that encourage children to develop body awareness and test their balance in a safe yet adventurous environment. The play structure is designed to challenge children of all ages with progressively difficult play elements.
To complete the dragon’s den, the playground also includes a smaller wooden dragon, large climbing boulders reminiscent of dragon eggs, trampolines, and slides. Additionally, a separate play area has been created for toddlers (up to 3 years old), where the dragon theme reappears in simplified forms.
The park’s pathways have been redesigned and repaved, with new rest areas along the main axis featuring radial benches inspired by the organic curves of the footpaths. Along the route, visitors will find a new calisthenics workout area, carousels, swings, and inclusive play areas, each defined by elliptical anthracite-colored concrete edging.
The existing soccer field has been renovated and integrated into the new design. Shrub vegetation has been structurally reorganized and enhanced, while new floral beds with roses and perennials have been added along the main park axis near the rest areas.

More info at: https://www.hhvh.de/ | https://zumkukuk.de/
Fotografie: Hahn Hertling von Hantelmann