A community garden for both natural play and seating was created from an unused lawn in the middle of a densely populated central London social housing estate, using Play Pathfinder funding.This site was selected by Camden to augment an equipment-based playground, between a primary school, large housing blocks, and the Tenants’ Hall. Community concern that more play space would generate anti-social behaviour was moderated by Shape landscape architects, with careful planning and presentations to the residents’ association. Traditional benches and better access to the hall were provided, as well as informal seating and natural play items – boulders, climbing / balancing tree, landform and decking – which were arranged to a sculptural effect that kept activity away from adjacent residences, but highly visible. Perimeter fencing was retained at the residents’ request.The area now appeals to office workers and residents as well as children, and is in steady use throughout the day by a variety of people.