The Tatra marmot is an endemic subspecies and unofficial symbol of the mountains. It’s so beloved that wildlife experts once installed a webcam to broadcast marmot life to the world – from the place near Skalnaté pleso. So our main character was clear. In the concept study, we presented the client with a playground design featuring several play elements, but above all three central play sculptures: two inspired by marmots and one depicting a mother bear with her cub. Each sculpture offers several different play activities. The entire playground was designed to appeal to children of all ages. The play sculptures are relatively small attractions that respect the character of the location while still attracting the attention of both children and adults. Based on the concept study, the client decided to implement the project in stages.

The sculptures were transported to Slovakia fully assembled. They then spent a few days in storage in the valley, waiting for suitable flying conditions. To reach an altitude of 1,751 metres above sea level, they had to be transported part of the way by helicopter. In Slovakia, only one helicopter is capable of lifting the required weight to such an altitude. Installing the play sculptures was then relatively straightforward. They were anchored into concrete foundations on a level surface, and rounded gravel was added as impact-absorbing surfacing.

The first sculpture to appear at Skalnaté Pleso was the marmot on a rock, installed in summer 2024. The rugged wooden rock features climbing holds, a tunnel hidden inside and a slide. The friendly marmot overlooking the Tatra valley immediately became a popular photo spot.