Play Structures

"We've become specialized in hard-to-build locations," says Butler. For the custom Canyon Perch, Butler worked with a steep hillside and a 9-foot-high tree stump. Butler's structures feature "loops of play," a continuous flow that leads from one play element to the next: Cross the swinging bridge to enter from the path, exit by ladder or fire pole, launch down the turbo slide, pop into the lower house, have a go on the swing, and ascend the rock climbing wall. "I try to encourage kids to run up and down and round and round the structure, wearing them out for a good night's sleep," she says.

Cost: $49,800; Barbara Butler