A real challenge with a space-saving playset is what to do with the swings. Cheating on the swing’s path is not an option, even though you desperately need a small-footprint playset. So how do you fit your swings without compromising your compact playground design?

Using a two-position cross beam, shortening a 3-position swing beam to a 2-position swing beam, or keeping your swings separate from your tower are ways to fit in swings without making the set massive. Let’s tackle them one at a time!

2-Position Cross Beam

This image shows the front view of the Care-Bear Castle swing set from King Swings.

As seen on the Care-Bear Castle, the 2-position cross beam means you dangle a single swing on the left and right sides of the tower. This means the swing’s paths are already partly factored into the set as you add things like slides or climbers.

A couple of things to note about the 2-position cross beam:

  1. The swing beam will stick out 3’ on each tower side.
  2. For safe swinging, you need a space of 8’ for the forward path and another 8′ for the backward path of the swing.
  3. Because it is connected directly to the tower, you will see a bit of flex and sway on the tower when it is being used. This is normal.
  4. If you are really cramped for space or which to use one side of the tower for a slide, you can do a 1-position cross beam.
  5. The max you can do is one swing on each side; we cannot extend that beam for two swings on one side.

The 2-position cross beam is an excellent addition to any space-saving playset. However, if you want more of a traditional look, the next option may be the best for you.

Shortening the Swing Beam

A red space saving version of Cubby's Fort

Our standard swing beams are 12’ long and have 3 swing positions. We can shorten that to a two-position swing beam about 9’ long. Here is what you need to know about shortening the beam:

  1. Even though it is shorter, the cost doesn’t change as most of the material is in the Aframe. The only reason to cut out a swing position is to save space.
  2. Keeping the swings on one side of the playset means you can snug that Aframe right up against the edge of your available dimensions.
  3. Keeping all the swings on one side allows you to utilize the opposite side for more slides or climbers.

While it is less space-efficient, this option is visually appealing as your swing set retains that classic look. This also allows you to have more sides of the tower open for additional fun items. Now, let’s move on to the last option.

Free-standing Swings

This image shows children swinging on a free-standing swing beam.

While this is technically not space-saving, separating your swings from the tower can help you fit more fun into your backyard. Sometimes we have customers with slopes all over their yards with only a few small flat areas. This can make it challenging to fit in a full swing set.

If this sounds like you, your best option here is to separate the swings from the tower. We have 2, 3, and 4-position free-standing swing beams and monkey bars. These give some flexibility with the placement of the play equipment. 

The plan would be to have all your climbers and slides on your playhouse/tower in one section with the swings in another. This helps you maximize your flat spaces in your yard.

Conclusion

Designing a space-saving playset can be a bit challenging. We would love to help you out! A great starting place is to send us a picture of your space with its dimensions and a list of the essential features. We will work with you to fit the most fun we can safely fit into your compact playground!

This image shows Justin explaining a swing beam on a Lodge Playhouse from King Swings
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