suzuko yamada installs playset in tokyo’s urban landscape
In Tokyo Midtown’s lawn, Marble Mountain by Suzuko Yamada Architects rises like a mini landscape for kids to climb, jump, and explore. This aluminum-structured playset turns a simple patch of grass into an adventure. Sharp peaks and deep valleys create rugged terrain, wrapped in swirling colors of green, gray, blue, and red—just like layers of rock in the earth.
Each peak varies in height, creating a sense of adventure and movement. Kids can climb, weave through gaps, or hide among the structures. The irregular placement of the cones keeps the space dynamic, encouraging different ways to interact. Beneath it all, a soft artificial turf makes sure every landing is a safe one.
all images courtesy of Suzuko Yamada Architects
marble mountain is a colorful climbable structure
Cities often hide the ground beneath layers of concrete and asphalt. Through Marble Mountain, the Japanese Suzuko Yamada Architects does the opposite. It brings the idea of raw, exposed earth into the urban environment. Kids scramble over its jagged surfaces, their movements blending into the marbled patterns. The reflections of movement in the marbled patterns create a playground that feels like it’s constantly shifting—solid yet always in motion.
Structurally, the playset is composed of aluminum panels, its undulating form is strong but lightweight. At just 41.7 square meters, the installation embodies the dynamic relationship between stability and movement. The textured peaks and valleys of the structure invite children to navigate their own paths through its sculpted crests.
Marble Mountain by Suzuko Yamada Architects rises like a mini landscape for kids
this aluminum-structured playset turns a simple patch of grass into an adventure
peaks and deep valleys create rugged terrain
wrapped in swirling colors of green, gray, blue, and red
the swirling colors represent layers of rock in the earth
creating a sense of adventure and movement
each peak varies in height
kids can climb, weave through gaps, or hide among the structures
encouraging different ways to interact
project info:
name: Marble Mountain
architect: Suzuko Yamada Architects | @yamadasuzuko
location: Tokyo, Japan
area: 41.7 square meters
project team: Suzuko Yamada, Kokoro Suzuki
client: GOLDWIN
builder: JAKUETS
