Dedicated to Being Your Partner in Play at Every Step
At Sparks@Play, we’ve refined our process over 14 years to ensure your project flows smoothly from initial concept through long-term maintenance. Our turnkey approach means you work with one dedicated team throughout your entire journey, eliminating the stress of managing multiple vendors and contractors.
Discovery & Consultation
Complimentary Site Assessment
Every great play space begins with understanding your vision, needs, and community. During our complimentary site visit, we’ll walk your property together, take precise measurements using our Moasure system, and discuss your goals. You’ll receive CAD-compatible site measurements at no charge – valuable documentation you can use whether you work with us or not.
Safety & Compliance Evaluation
Our staff, which includes numerous CPSIs, assess your site for safety considerations, optimal equipment placement, and compliance with ADA requirements. We’ll help you balance your wish list with your budget, identifying opportunities for phased development or grant funding if needed.
Design & Planning
Custom Solutions for Every Budget
This is where dreams take shape. Our design team creates custom plans that reflect your specific needs – whether you’re working with a tight budget or envisioning a marquee playground. Every design we create is complementary, giving you professional renderings and specifications to share with stakeholders and decision-makers.
Inclusive Design Expertise
We don’t just design equipment placement. We consider sight lines for supervision, traffic flow, age-appropriate zones, shade requirements, and how your space will serve users of all abilities. Our designs follow the Seven Principles of Universal Design, ensuring your investment creates joy for every member of your community.
For budget-conscious projects, ask about our pre-designed playground options that deliver quality play experiences at predetermined price points.
Budgeting & Procurement
Transparent Pricing
We provide detailed cost breakdowns that help you understand exactly where your investment goes. Our 35+ years of combined experience means accurate initial estimates that help prevent costly surprises during construction.
Funding Support
Need funding assistance? We’ll connect you with our grant guides and can provide supporting documentation for funding applications. Our team regularly helps clients identify funding opportunities specific to their project type and location across Maryland, Virginia, West Virginia, and D.C.
Construction & Installation
Single-Source Accountability
As your single point of contact, we can serve as your general contractor, construction manager, or installation specialist – whatever your project requires. Our certified installers ensure every component meets or exceeds ASTM and CSA safety standards.
Comprehensive Project Management
We coordinate all aspects of construction: site preparation, drainage considerations, utility marking, concrete work, equipment installation, and safety surfacing. Our project managers keep you informed at every milestone, ensuring your project stays on schedule and within budget.
Final Inspection & Training
Thorough Safety Verification
Before we hand over the keys, our CPSIs conduct thorough safety inspections of the entire installation. We’ll walk you through proper maintenance procedures and emergency contact protocols.
The Sparks@Play Guarantee
You’ll receive comprehensive documentation including warranty information, maintenance schedules, and our exclusive Sparks@Play Guarantee – as long as your equipment is under warranty and we performed the installation, we’ll fix any issues at no charge. Plus, we’ll introduce you to your dedicated parts specialist who will handle all future replacement needs.
Ongoing Partnership & Maintenance
Simplified Support System
Our relationship doesn’t end at ribbon cutting. With one dedicated staff member handling all parts orders and maintenance requests, getting support is simple. Email our staff directly with a photo of any issue, and they’ll handle everything from part identification to scheduling repairs.
Comprehensive Maintenance Services
We maintain inventory from major manufacturers, not just our partner brands, ensuring quick turnaround on repairs. Our maintenance services include:
- Routine safety inspections
- OEM parts replacement
- Surface replenishment and repair
- Equipment revitalization and updates
- Accessibility and inclusiveness upgrades
Your investment will look and perform like new for decades with our proven maintenance programs.
