Mall Indoor Play Area in Sweden

Shopping centers across Sweden are adding new attractions to keep families engaged longer, and play zones are becoming a popular solution. This case study showcases the development of a mall indoor play area in Sweden, designed to create a safe, fun, and memorable experience for children while encouraging parents to spend more time in the retail space.

The client was a shopping mall manager in Stockholm overseeing a mid-sized retail center that struggled with declining weekend footfall. Families often visited briefly but rarely stayed long enough to shop at multiple stores. After exploring potential solutions, the manager found us through a LinkedIn industry article about indoors play area designs. Their goal was clear: provide an attractive indoor mall play area to keep children entertained, increase family dwell time, and give retailers a much-needed sales boost.

Our design team created a compact yet dynamic play area tailored to the mall’s central atrium. A colorful maze play area encouraged kids to explore and climb, while a small stage allowed for weekend mini-shows and seasonal performances. Younger children enjoyed a cushioned soft play area, while the kids ball pool with slide became an instant favorite for its playful, social atmosphere. The layout was intentionally open, allowing parents to supervise from nearby cafés and seating areas without worry.

The installation had to be carefully timed to avoid disrupting retail operations. Equipment arrived in pre-assembled modules, which our team set up over five consecutive nights after mall hours. Safety checks were carried out in collaboration with local inspectors, ensuring all features met Sweden’s strict play equipment standards. The mall also requested customized branding elements, including wall decals and a color palette that matched the center’s existing interior design.

The play zone quickly became a highlight of the shopping center. Within the first three months, overall mall traffic increased by 28%, and average visit duration among families rose by nearly 40 minutes. Retail tenants reported higher weekend sales, particularly from food outlets near the play area. The manager noted in feedback that, “Parents tell us they now plan shopping trips around the play space—it’s become a destination rather than an afterthought.” Social media posts featuring the indoor mall play area generated buzz, with dozens of families sharing photos weekly, effectively providing free marketing for the mall.

This project demonstrates how a well-planned mall indoor play area in Sweden can transform the family shopping experience. By balancing safety, fun, and community appeal, the installation not only delighted children but also delivered measurable commercial benefits. For shopping centers looking to attract and retain families, investing in an engaging indoor play concept is a proven strategy. Our team is ready to help bring similar projects to life in malls across Sweden and beyond.