Ridgedale Play

Ridgedale Play transformed an inline tenant space at Ridgedale Center into a dedicated children’s play environment and became the first location in a prototype program ADC developed with GGP for rollout across its national portfolio. Rather than placing play equipment in the middle of a mall common area, the concept moved the experience into its own enclosed space, creating a more intimate and controlled environment for children and their parents.

The interior was designed around a series of colorful interactive environments that encourage children to move, explore, imagine, and learn. Play elements support different types of activity and developmental skills, while distinct zones create a progression through the space rather than one large open play room. The original Ridgedale location included features for different age groups and activities centered on physical play, sensory discovery, building, imaginative play, and coordination. Contemporary coverage of the opening described seven different interactive play experiences.

ADC also designed the space around the needs of parents and families. Café tables and bar-height seating provide places for adults to supervise children, while an enclosed workshop room accommodates organized activities, sponsored programs, private events, and birthday parties. Food and beverage vending further supports longer family visits.

The storefront extends the playful identity into the mall concourse while clearly defining the entrance to a secure children’s environment. As the prototype was adapted to other GGP properties, individual storefronts responded to their existing mall conditions while maintaining a consistent PLAY identity. The success of the first Ridgedale location led to demand for additional versions at other shopping centers.