red hot chilli pepper's flea & NBBJ launch renovated playground

nbbj & flea of the red hot chili peppers team up for la project

NBBJ and its east coast experience design studio, ESI Design, have completed the renovation of a playground in the heart of Nickerson Gardens in Watts, Los Angeles, the largest public housing development west of the Mississippi. The uplifted space boasts organic lines and welcoming color tones, with state-of-the-art playground equipment, offering a durable space to the historically underserved community. The Housing Authority of the City of Los Angeles (HACLA) organized the grand opening on August 16, 2023, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by surprise performances by the Red Hot Chili Peppers and Jay Rock, who grew up in Nickerson Gardens.

An LA native and celebrated musician, the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Flea (a.k.a Peter Balzary) joined in as the project’s primary benefactor. His vision, fundraising, and active involvement in soliciting donations enabled the project to progress. The renovation initiative burgeoned due to a relationship cultivated during the COVID-19 pandemic. He was there to support and participate in the weekly community food distribution, where residents received fresh produce, hot meals, and face masks.

all images © Ty Cole, courtesy NBBJ

uplifting the Nickerson Gardens playground

As part of a more extensive redevelopment of the Nickerson Gardens public housing complex with Los Angeles Land Trust, the renovated 1,640 sqm Nickerson Gardens Playground, supported by Flea, provides the Watts community with a much-needed space for exercise and fun. The playground can accommodate over 250 people and features seven swings, multiple slides, a carousel, and an adult fitness center. NBBJ (see more here) and ESI Design (more here) used recycled, play-specific sport surfaces in fade-resistant shades of yellow and orange that are easy to clean and repair, while misting poles and shade canopies provide relief from the intense Southern California climate. The resulting design provides residents with a durable and sustainable communal space that can be enjoyed throughout the year.

Nickerson Gardens Playground renovation in LA

a durable & welcoming space for the children of watts

Design perspective and direction were provided pro bono by both studios. At the same time, the Watts Community Group and the HACLA contributed critical design input, organized community reviews and approvals, and arranged resources to maintain the playground. Kompan provided state-of-the-art playground equipment. ‘This playground represents more than just a place to play. Our children in Watts need to know that they matter. And Flea’s investment in this community is a reminder that they haven’t been forgotten,’ shared Donny Joubert, President of Watts Gang Task Force.

a welcoming and durable space for the underserved community of Watts