How Much Space Do You Need for a BERG PlayBase?
When families first discover the BERG PlayBase, one of the first questions they ask is: “How much space do we need in the garden?”
The BERG PlayBase needs clear space: Medium \~6×4m, Large \~7×5m, Extra-Large \~8.5×6m, and Wall version \~4×3m—perfectly adaptable for Irish gardens of all sizes.
It’s a smart question because while the PlayBase is a compact, modern take on the climbing frame, it’s also a serious piece of equipment that needs space to be safe, functional, and fun. Choosing the right size frame and allowing enough clearance ensures your children (and you!) get the most from it.
In this post, we’ll break down the space requirements for each PlayBase model—Medium, Large, Extra-Large, and Wall version—and give practical tips for planning your garden setup.
1. Understanding the PlayBase Concept
Before diving into measurements, it’s important to understand what the PlayBase is.
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Modular frame system: The PlayBase is a sleek, black steel frame that can be fitted with swings, monkey bars, climbing walls, rings, hammocks, basketball hoops, and more.
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Multiple sizes: BERG offers Medium, Large, Extra-Large, and Wall versions to suit different families and gardens.
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Outdoor hub: It’s designed to serve as a playground, sports station, and lounge area all in one.
Because it’s more versatile than a standard swing set, you’ll want to allow space not just for the frame itself but also for movement clearance (like the swing arc or basketball shots).
2. General Rules for Space Planning
Regardless of the size you choose, there are some general space rules to keep in mind:
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Frame footprint vs. usable space: The PlayBase frame has a fixed footprint, but activities like swinging and climbing need additional clearance.
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Swing clearance: Allow at least 2 metres in front and behind swings for a safe arc.
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Climbing wall clearance: Make sure there’s soft ground or matting below and at least 1.5 metres clearance around.
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Basketball hoops: Plan for space in front of the hoop for safe play—ideally 3–4 metres if possible.
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Safe surfacing: Grass works fine, but if you’re installing on a hard surface, consider protective mats.
Now let’s break down each model.
3. BERG PlayBase Medium
The Medium PlayBase is the most compact version, perfect for smaller gardens or younger families.
Approximate footprint
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Width: ~285 cm (2.85 m)
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Depth: ~100 cm (1 m)
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Height: ~245 cm (2.45 m)
(Exact measurements may vary slightly depending on configuration, but these figures give a good guide.)
Space requirements
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Allow at least 2 m clearance front and back for swings.
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At least 1–1.5 m clearance to each side for climbing or fitness use.
Recommended garden space: a clear area of 6 m x 4 m works well for the Medium version.
Who it’s for
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Best for families with younger children (toddlers to early primary).
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Great for compact gardens where space is limited.
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Can still be adapted for adult use with rings, resistance bands, or a hammock.
4. BERG PlayBase Large
The Large PlayBase is the most popular option, balancing space with versatility.
Approximate footprint
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Width: ~380 cm (3.8 m)
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Depth: ~100 cm (1 m)
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Height: ~245 cm (2.45 m)
Space requirements
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Swing clearance: 2 m front and back.
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Side clearance: 1.5 m minimum.
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Extra room if using basketball hoop.
Recommended garden space: a clear area of 7 m x 5 m gives you safe room for play.
Who it’s for
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Perfect for primary school families with multiple children.
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Offers enough room for both play (swings, climbing wall) and sport/fitness.
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Still compact enough for standard suburban gardens.
5. BERG PlayBase Extra-Large
The Extra-Large PlayBase is the ultimate garden gym and playground.
Approximate footprint
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Width: ~490 cm (4.9 m)
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Depth: ~100 cm (1 m)
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Height: ~245 cm (2.45 m)
Space requirements
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Swing clearance: 2 m front and back.
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Side clearance: ideally 2 m.
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If using multiple accessories at once (e.g., climbing wall + basketball hoop), more space will keep things comfortable.
Recommended garden space: a clear area of 8.5 m x 6 m or larger is ideal.
Who it’s for
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Larger families or those with older children and teens.
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Parents who want to use the PlayBase as a serious fitness station.
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Families with bigger gardens who want a statement piece.
6. BERG PlayBase Wall Version
The Wall version is unique: instead of a freestanding frame, it anchors vertically against a wall.
Approximate footprint
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Width: ~120 cm (1.2 m)
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Depth: ~100 cm (1 m)
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Height: ~245 cm (2.45 m)
Space requirements
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Since it’s against a wall, clearance is mostly needed in front.
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Allow at least 2.5–3 m forward space for safe play and workouts.
Recommended garden space: a clear area of 4 m x 3 m in front of the wall.
Who it’s for
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Ideal for families with very limited garden space.
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Great for urban gardens, courtyards, or side passages.
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Works well for fitness-focused parents who want a compact home gym.
7. Choosing the Right Size for Your Family
So which version suits you? Here are a few guidelines:
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Medium: great for toddlers and younger kids, or compact gardens.
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Large: the best all-rounder for families with primary-school children.
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Extra-Large: perfect for large families, bigger gardens, and teens/adults who want to use it for fitness.
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Wall: excellent for space-limited homes that still want PlayBase functionality.
When in doubt, think about:
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Number of children (and their ages).
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How you want to use it (mostly play, or also adult fitness?).
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Garden layout—sometimes a larger size fits better depending on orientation.
8. Practical Tips for Planning Space
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Measure twice, buy once: Use a tape measure to mark out the footprint + clearance in your garden before ordering.
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Think about accessories: Will you want a basketball hoop? Hammock? Climbing wall? Allow extra space accordingly.
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Check surfaces: Grass is fine, but for high-impact play (climbing walls, monkey bars), soft ground or mats are best.
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Mind trees and fences: Avoid placing swings near hedges or walls where children could bump into them.
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Leave space for growth: Kids get bigger (and bolder!). A frame that feels spacious now should still feel safe in five years.
9. Why Space Planning Matters
Some families underestimate how much room is needed for safe play. Proper space planning ensures:
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Safety: Children won’t bump into walls, fences, or each other.
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Enjoyment: Swings can swing fully, hoops can be played properly.
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Longevity: A well-placed PlayBase won’t need to be moved later.
Think of it as designing a mini outdoor gym and playground. The more thought you put in now, the more value your family will get long-term.
10. Why the PlayBase is Worth the Space
Yes, the PlayBase needs a clear area in your garden. But it’s worth it because it replaces multiple pieces of equipment:
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A swing set.
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A climbing frame.
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A basketball hoop.
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A pull-up station.
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A home gym frame.
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Even a hammock stand.
Instead of filling your garden with multiple structures, you get one sleek, durable frame that does it all.
11. Why Buy From Trampolines Ireland?
When you’re investing in something as versatile as the BERG PlayBase, you want expert support. At Trampolines Ireland we provide:
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Authorised BERG retailer status, ensuring genuine products and full warranties.
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Expert advice on choosing the right size for your family and garden.
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Nationwide delivery across Ireland.
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Trusted by schools and families, known for our service and reliability.
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Aftercare support for setup and maintenance.
We’ve helped countless Irish families choose the perfect PlayBase size, and we’d be delighted to help you too.
Conclusion
So, how much space do you need for a BERG PlayBase?
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Medium: allow about 6 m x 4 m.
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Large: allow about 7 m x 5 m.
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Extra-Large: allow about 8.5 m x 6 m.
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Wall: allow about 4 m x 3 m in front of a wall.
With the right planning, the PlayBase will fit seamlessly into your garden and transform it into a year-round hub for play, sport, and relaxation.
It’s more than just a climbing frame—it’s an investment in your family’s health, happiness, and togetherness.
And when you’re ready to bring one home, Trampolines Ireland is here with expert advice, trusted service, and nationwide delivery.