Tag Archive for: climbing walls

Citywall & Holds Haus at ABC Conference 2026

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Building the Future of Climbing Walls in the UK

On 16–17 September 2026, Citywall will join our UK partner Holds Haus at the ABC Conference 2026, the Association of British Climbing Walls Annual Conference & Tradeshow at the Magna Science Adventure Centre in Rotherham.

As the UK’s largest and most established event dedicated to the indoor climbing industry, the ABC Conference brings together climbing wall owners, operators, route setters, industry professionals, suppliers and decision-makers from across the United Kingdom and beyond.

For Citywall, it is also an important opportunity to meet architects, construction companies, developers, leisure operators, schools, universities, local authorities and public-sector organisations planning the next generation of climbing and leisure facilities.

And most importantly: we are coming to meet you.

Looking for a climbing wall manufacturer for your next project?

Whether you are planning a completely new indoor climbing centre, expanding an existing climbing gym, developing a bouldering facility or integrating climbing into a larger sports, leisure, education or public-sector development, CityWall can support projects from concept to completion.

Together with Holds Haus, our UK partner, we are strengthening our presence in the United Kingdom and making it easier for UK clients to access Citywall’s climbing wall design, engineering, manufacturing and installation expertise.

Our solutions include:

  • commercial indoor climbing walls
  • bouldering walls
  • lead climbing walls
  • top-rope climbing walls
  • competition climbing walls
  • speed climbing walls
  • training walls and spray walls
  • adjustable training boards
  • climbing structures for leisure and sports centres
  • climbing facilities for schools and universities
  • climbing walls for public-sector and community projects
  • bespoke climbing wall design and manufacturing
  • renovation and expansion of existing climbing centres
  • safety matting and climbing holds

From an initial idea and architectural concept to engineering, production and installation, our goal is to help clients create climbing facilities that work technically, commercially and operationally.

Boulderwelt GmbH, Hamburg

Climbing wall solutions for architects, developers and construction companies

A successful climbing facility begins long before the first climbing hold is installed.

Climbing walls are increasingly incorporated into larger sports facilities, leisure centres, mixed-use developments, schools, universities and community recreation projects. This requires close cooperation between the climbing wall manufacturer, architect, structural engineer, main contractor, developer and operator.

Citywall works with project teams to integrate climbing infrastructure into the wider architectural and construction process.

If you are an architect, architecture practice, construction company, main contractor, property developer or leisure consultant working on a project that includes an indoor climbing wall or bouldering facility, ABC Conference 2026 is an opportunity to discuss your project directly with our team. Bring us your plans, your concept or simply an idea. We can discuss the possibilities together.

NCC NATIONAL CLIMBING CENTRE, NETHERLANDS 2026

NCC National Climbing Centre, Netherlands, 2026

 

BulderLand 2.0, Zaragoza, Spain 2026

BulderLand 2.0, Zaragoza, Spain 2026

 

Climbing walls for leisure centres and public-sector projects

Climbing is no longer limited to specialist climbing gyms. Modern climbing and bouldering facilities are increasingly relevant for municipal sports centres, leisure centres, schools, universities, community facilities and public recreation projects.

For local authorities, developers and public-sector organisations, a climbing facility can become part of a broader strategy to create active, attractive and multi-generational sports infrastructure.

Citywall is ready to work with UK partners on projects ranging from individual climbing structures and training facilities to large-scale commercial and public climbing centres.

If your organisation is considering a new climbing wall, bouldering centre, sports centre climbing facility or climbing wall refurbishment, meet us at ABC Conference 2026 to discuss the project at an early stage.

Triaden, Klatresenter foto credit: Sebastian Cruz

From local climbing gyms to large-scale climbing centres

Every climbing project is different. An independent bouldering gym may require maximum climbing value from a compact footprint. A large commercial climbing centre may combine bouldering, lead climbing, top rope, speed climbing, training areas and competition infrastructure. A school or community facility will have different operational and user requirements again.

This is why we approach climbing wall projects individually.

Citywall’s experience ranges from smaller climbing and training installations to major international climbing facilities. Our portfolio includes large-scale climbing centres and specialist competition and training infrastructure.

For UK climbing gym owners and operators, our partnership with Holds Haus creates a direct connection between local UK market knowledge and Citywall’s European manufacturing and engineering capabilities.

Triaden Klatresenter foto credit: Sebastian Cruz

Sustainable climbing wall construction

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly important consideration in the design and construction of sports and leisure facilities.

Citywall uses timber structures in its climbing wall construction. This approach combines structural performance with a reduced reliance on steel and offers practical advantages for climbing wall design and route setting.

For architects, developers and organisations working towards more sustainable sports infrastructure, material selection can be an important part of the overall project strategy.  At ABC Conference 2026, we will be available to discuss our construction systems, materials and engineering approach in more detail.

 

 

Why the UK market matters to Citywall

The United Kingdom is an important long-term market for Citywall. The British climbing industry has a strong community of climbing centres, experienced operators, route setters and industry professionals, while climbing continues to create opportunities within the wider sports, leisure and recreation sector.

Our objective is not simply to supply climbing walls to the UK. We want to build long-term partnerships.

Through our cooperation with Holds Haus, we are establishing a stronger local presence and creating a direct point of contact for UK climbing centres, architects, contractors, developers and organisations considering new climbing infrastructure. We are actively looking for new projects and new collaborations.

Mounier, Belgium

 

Go Monkey PremiereQ Saudi Arabia

Meet Citywall & Holds Haus at ABC Conference 2026

The ABC Conference is designed around exactly what the climbing industry needs: knowledge exchange, new products, professional connections and time to meet the people shaping the future of indoor climbing.

The 2026 conference will take place over two full days, Wednesday 16 and Thursday 17 September, providing additional exhibition and networking time.

Citywall and Holds Haus will be there and available for pre-arranged B2B meetings throughout the event. If you are:

a climbing gym owner or operator planning a new facility or expansion,

an architect designing a climbing, sports or leisure project,

a construction company or main contractor looking for an experienced climbing wall manufacturer,

a developer or investor exploring the commercial potential of an indoor climbing centre,

a leisure centre operator considering climbing or bouldering,

a school or university planning new climbing facilities,

or a local authority or public-sector organisation developing sports and recreation infrastructure, we would love to meet you.

 

Gravity Fun, Sarah church, Belgium 2026

Book a meeting with us at ABC Conference 2026

Already have a project in development or planning a new climbing centre? Considering a bouldering wall, lead climbing wall, training wall or complete indoor climbing centre? Or simply interested in understanding what is possible?

Book a meeting with Citywall and Holds Haus during ABC Conference 2026.

Pre-arranging a meeting gives us time to learn more about your project and prepare for a focused discussion at the conference.

Holds Haus

United Kingdom

www.holdshaus.com

Email: info@holdshaus.com
Phone: +44 (0) 7984 302 416

Citywall

Slovenia

www.citywall.eu

Email: info@citywall.eu
Phone: +386 41 953 855

 

Climbing Walls for Kindergartens and Schools – A Long-Term Investment in Children’s Health and Physical Development

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Physical inactivity among children is becoming one of the greatest challenges facing modern society. As a result, municipalities, schools, kindergartens, public institutions and private investors are increasingly looking for sustainable solutions that promote physical activity, motor development and healthy lifestyles.

One of the most effective investments is a climbing wall. Modern climbing walls provide children with a safe, engaging and educational environment while supporting long-term health, physical literacy and personal development.

Today, climbing has become an essential part of modern sports infrastructure and is increasingly included in the construction and renovation of schools, kindergartens, sports centres, community facilities and multi-purpose sports halls throughout Europe.

Why is climbing important from an early age?

Climbing is one of the most natural forms of human movement. Children instinctively enjoy climbing playground equipment, trees and obstacles. A professionally designed climbing wall allows them to develop these natural abilities in a safe and controlled environment.

Regular climbing helps children develop:

  • balance and coordination,
  • overall body strength,
  • concentration,
  • spatial awareness,
  • self-confidence,
  • perseverance and problem-solving skills.

One of the greatest advantages of climbing is that children learn through play. Every completed climbing route represents a new achievement, strengthening confidence while motivating them to continue being physically active.

Climbing walls as part of modern educational facilities

An increasing number of kindergartens, primary schools and secondary schools are integrating climbing walls into their sports and educational programmes. Climbing is an excellent addition to physical education classes, extracurricular activities and active school breaks.

Climbing walls can be installed in:

  • school gymnasiums,
  • multi-purpose sports halls,
  • outdoor sports facilities,
  • playgrounds,
  • sports parks,
  • recreation and community centres.

Because every project is custom designed, climbing walls can be adapted to both small and large spaces.

Low bouldering walls or high climbing walls?

The choice depends on the age of the users, educational objectives and available space.

Low (Bouldering) Climbing Walls

Bouldering walls are the ideal solution for kindergartens, primary schools, children’s sports centres and recreational facilities.

Their advantages include:

  • no ropes or harnesses required,
  • suitable for younger children,
  • high level of safety,
  • certified safety mats or impact-absorbing flooring,
  • unlimited possibilities for creating climbing routes of different difficulty levels.

Children can develop confidence without fear of heights, while teachers can easily integrate climbing into physical education programmes.

High Climbing Walls

High climbing walls are designed primarily for primary and secondary schools, climbing clubs, sports centres and training facilities.

They include:

  • top anchors,
  • belay systems,
  • certified intermediate anchor points,
  • safety equipment,
  • components designed in accordance with EN 12572 European Standard.

They are suitable for physical education, climbing training and competitions.

Climbing develops social and life skills

Although climbing can be an individual sport, it strongly encourages teamwork, communication and responsibility.

Through climbing, children develop:

  • communication skills and respect for rules,
  • responsibility towards themselves and others,
  • teamwork and cooperation,
  • independence,
  • confidence when solving new challenges.

For this reason, many educational institutions include climbing as part of programmes that promote social development and life skills.

Safe and certified sports equipment

Safety is the highest priority when designing educational climbing facilities.

All Citywall climbing walls are designed and manufactured in accordance with the EN 12572 European Standard for both bouldering and high climbing walls.

Following installation, every climbing wall undergoes structural testing to verify safety and stability.

We use premium-quality materials suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications, ensuring excellent durability and resistance to weather conditions and intensive daily use.

Endless possibilities with climbing holds

One of the greatest advantages of a climbing wall is its flexibility.

Climbing holds can easily be:

  • repositioned,
  • replaced,
  • rotated,
  • added or removed,

allowing teachers and instructors to create completely new climbing routes whenever needed.

This enables schools to continuously adapt climbing activities to different age groups, skill levels and educational objectives without investing in new equipment.

A sustainable investment for municipalities and public projects

Installing a climbing wall is a long-term investment in educational and sports infrastructure.

Thanks to their durability, low maintenance costs and year-round usability, climbing walls are increasingly included in projects funded or supported by:

  • municipalities,
  • ministries,
  • European Union funding programmes,
  • public tenders,
  • sports federations,
  • public institutions,
  • private investors,
  • architects and construction companies.

A climbing wall adds long-term value to educational facilities while supporting healthier, more active communities.

Citywall – Over 30 Years of Experience in Climbing Wall Design and Construction

For more than three decades, Citywall has specialised in the design, engineering, manufacturing and installation of custom climbing walls throughout Slovenia and across Europe.

We provide complete turnkey solutions, including:

  • concept development,
  • climbing wall design,
  • engineering,
  • manufacturing,
  • installation,
  • after-sales support.

Our portfolio includes:

  • climbing walls for kindergartens,
  • climbing walls for primary schools,
  • climbing walls for secondary schools,
  • indoor climbing walls,
  • outdoor climbing walls,
  • bouldering walls,
  • commercial climbing gyms,
  • firefighter training towers,
  • rescue training facilities,
  • military and civil protection training structures.

Every project is individually designed according to the available space, user groups and long-term objectives of the client.

Planning a New Sports Infrastructure Project?

Whether you are planning a new kindergarten, school, sports centre, municipal facility or community project, Citywall can help you develop a safe, durable and future-proof climbing solution.

Our team works closely with municipalities, architects, educational institutions, contractors and investors to deliver climbing facilities that inspire movement, learning and healthy lifestyles for generations to come.

 

We’d be happy to discuss your ideas and help you develop the right solution for your community or organization.

📧 info@citywall.eu
📞 +386 41 953 855

 

Integrating Climbing Walls into Heritage Buildings

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Preserving Heritage Through Minimal Intervention

At Citywall, we believe that the most successful architectural interventions are those that respect the identity of a place while creating opportunities for new experiences.

As cities evolve and buildings adapt to changing social and economic needs, architecture is increasingly challenged to support multiple functions within existing structures. Historic buildings, industrial facilities, religious spaces, and underutilized properties are being transformed into vibrant destinations that encourage movement, interaction, and community engagement.

Integrating climbing walls into these environments requires more than creativity. It demands a careful balance between heritage preservation, architectural integrity, structural responsibility, and user experience.

Our approach is based on a simple principle: work with the building, not against it.

Architectural Climbing Wall Design for Heritage and Adaptive Reuse Projects

Citywall specializes in the design, manufacture, and installation of commercial climbing walls that integrate seamlessly into heritage buildings, adaptive reuse developments, and contemporary architectural projects.

Rather than imposing new structures onto existing architecture, we develop climbing wall solutions that respond to the history, character, and spatial qualities of each building.

Every project begins with a detailed analysis of the architectural context, structural conditions, heritage requirements, and future use of the space. This process allows us to create climbing environments that enhance the building’s purpose while preserving its original identity.

Whether integrated into a historic warehouse, former industrial facility, church conversion, educational campus, or mixed-use development, our climbing wall systems are designed to complement the architecture rather than compete with it.

Pastor St. Willibrordus Church

 

Self-Supporting Structures and Reversible Interventions

Nestled in the heart of an ancient monastery and a renovated chapel, the venue blends heritage and modernity to offer an extraordinary experience. Climbing beneath the arches, moving through this setting steeped in history and beauty, is to embark on a sporting and family adventure in a setting as surprising as it is unforgettable: Gravity Fun, Monastère de la Visitation, Avenue de la Chapelle in 1950 Kraainem

 

One of the most important aspects of climbing wall integration in sensitive environments is minimizing the impact on the existing structure.

For heritage buildings and protected architectural assets, self-supporting climbing wall structures are often the preferred solution. These systems significantly reduce the need for permanent modifications and help preserve original construction elements.

Whenever possible, Citywall develops fully reversible interventions that allow the space to be restored to its original condition in the future. This approach aligns with the requirements of heritage authorities, conservation professionals, and building owners seeking long-term flexibility.

By reducing structural intervention while maintaining full functionality, we create climbing environments that respect both the building and its future possibilities.

Transforming Existing Buildings into Active Community Spaces

Across Europe and beyond, adaptive reuse architecture is becoming an increasingly important strategy for sustainable urban development.

Former industrial buildings, warehouses, churches, schools, and public facilities are being reimagined as destinations for recreation, education, and community engagement.

Commercial climbing walls offer a unique opportunity to activate these spaces while preserving their architectural significance.

By introducing climbing experiences into existing buildings, developers and architects can create environments that encourage physical activity, social interaction, and cultural value without compromising the original character of the structure.

The result is a meaningful connection between past, present, and future — where historic architecture continues to tell its story while supporting new forms of use and engagement.

 

Bouldering in Veldhoven’s Sint-Willibrorduskerk: a unique climbing experience!

 

 

The Roof – Maison de l’escalade in Rennes, France, is a renowned bouldering gym housed inside the historic Hôtel-Dieu Hospital complex

 

Climbing Wall Solutions for Architects, Developers, and Climbing Centers

Citywall collaborates with architects, developers, municipalities, heritage consultants, educational institutions, and climbing center operators to deliver integrated climbing wall solutions tailored to each project.

Our services include:

  • Architectural climbing wall design
  • Commercial climbing wall manufacturing
  • Climbing wall installation
  • Self-supporting climbing wall structures
  • Heritage-sensitive climbing wall integration
  • Adaptive reuse and redevelopment consulting
  • Custom climbing holds and route-setting solutions
  • Indoor and outdoor climbing wall systems

Through close collaboration with project stakeholders, we ensure that every climbing wall contributes to the architectural vision, functional requirements, and long-term value of the building.

Maniak Padoue – Church Saint Antoine De Padoue, Belgium

 

Respecting the Past. Designing for the Future.

At the heart of every Citywall project is a commitment to responsible design.

We create climbing environments that respect architectural heritage, support contemporary use, and strengthen community connections. By carefully bridging the past, present, and future, our climbing wall solutions enable buildings to evolve while preserving the stories embedded within them.

The result is architecture that remains authentic, adaptable, and relevant for generations to come.

The Citywall Architectural & Design Team