17 – Mercaz (Playground)
Unveiled Summer 2021
Architect / Installer: Environment Design, Milford, CT, Fred Martin
Materials: natural woods, artificial turf, playground mulch, concrete
Landscape design/support: Adam Ardoin, Landscape Studio Group
Fencing: Allied Fencing, Larry Winkelvoss
Far beyond a mere playground, the Temple Sinai Mercaz is an outdoor, natural learning environment that encourages creative play, community building, personal growth, and Jewish learning for youth of all ages. Students are able to explore nature-inspired climbing structures and discover hidden forts at our Tel Kef (Hill of Fun), put their imagination to work onstage in the Teatron (Theatre), cruise around a racetrack we call the GalGal (wheel), and experiment with water elements in our Chof Pit (sandbox). The Mercaz also includes the Gan (Garden), an enclosed space for infants and toddlers, where they can safely explore, develop and nurture foundational motor skills. Since its opening in Summer 2021, the Mercaz has transformed our educational programs and provided a safe, nurturing space for parents, youth and teens to gather together in community.
Reflection from Jamah Maman:
The Mercaz is more than just a playground—it’s the heart of our community’s connection to nature, learning, and one another. Designed as an extension of Temple Sinai’s beautiful natural surroundings, this thoughtfully created outdoor space invites curiosity, exploration, and joy and wonder for children of all ages. Whether it’s toddlers giggling in the Gan, older kids racing along the Gal Gal bike path, or families gathering near the Hof Pit, the Mercaz embodies what it means to learn and grow together. It’s a sacred space not just because of what it looks like, but because of what happens here—friendships are formed, confidence is built, and Jewish life is lived outdoors. For many, the Mercaz is the first place they fall in love with being part of the Temple Sinai community. It’s a place that reminds us: Joyful Judaism isn’t confined to inside our walls—it takes root in the soil, echoes in laughter, and soars beneath the open sky.
