Mattel Children's Hospital UCLA has unveiled an entertaining and educational children's play area at the Santa Monica Place mall. The custom designed play and learn environment dubbed Samo's Clubhouse creates an entertaining destination for 5 to 8 year olds that is as unique as the mall itself.
Conceived by architect Bob Bangham, Creative Director of design + build firm RipBangSVI, in collaboration with Arthur M. Cappola, Chairman & CEO of Macerich, Samo's Clubhouse is a fun way to communicate a message that resonates with the values and aspirations of the community of Santa Monica and Mattel UCLA Children's Hospital: "when we take care of our environment, we take better care of ourselves."
Samo the Whale, a sculptural 46' long full-size humpback whale built from steel ribs, sustainably harvested wood decking, rope netting, recycled rubber "ocean floor" and found objects incorporates climbing elements and interactive play components including talk tubes, telescope, periscope, and other fun activities for kids to explore.
The city and residents of Santa Monica have always been leaders in environmental stewardship; central to this ethic is the health of Santa Monica Bay. "Blue is Santa Monica's green therefore, we chose the humpback, a familiar visitor to Santa Monica Bay, as the basis of our narrative for the play area," said Bangham.
Located in the third floor food court behind a three-story wall of glass, Samo's Clubhouse serves as a highly visible community gathering place intended to serve as a fun, safe and educational amenity for all who visit Santa Monica Place.
"We really love how Samo's Clubhouse has brought new life to the Mall," said Julia Ladd, Senior Property Manager, Santa Monica Place, but most importantly, "the kids love it!"