Sensory Garden

[newton]

ASA

Just sharing with members that I have tasked my self to create two new gardens. 1st one is a sensory garden in one of our privately owned sites. 2nd one is an easily maintained garden/seating space at the front entrance of our mosque (this one is going to be relatively straightforward) Islamic design principles will be used in this. Both are in the UK

The first one will be used as a communal garden by adults residents in the main building . They will have Autism Spectrum disorders, as well as physical and mental health disabilities of varying degrees. It will involve restructuring an existing garden currently directly maintained by myself for many years. There will have to be improved wheelchair/visually impaired access, removing obstacles, poisonous or harmful plants, plants with sharp thorns etc , as well as excessive sound and smell to minimise visual and sensory overload. Seating, structural planting and outdoor calming places will also be very important.

There is currently a gated secret garden within the plot where previously chickens were kept, Im unsure if the animal facility should be retained or removed. Personally I feel it may be beneficial but I don't know for sure yet as its early days.

it is a totally fresh design concept for me, I know there is information online but If any of our members have experience of either the end users or the garden environment for these users It would be great to receive some input and practical advice.

Regards
Ifzaal

[Munir]

Good luck in your noble endeavours.

[Khalid Abro]

Hearing first time about such garden, targeted towards specific audience/visitors. It seems very technical and challenging task!! Best of luck to you Ifzaal. Hope you do wonders in this project.

[mikhurram]

Below is an article written by Zahrah Nasir which may prove to be useful for your project but as such doesn't offer any sketch.
http://x.dawn.com/2010/10/24/nature-tal ... ons/print/

[new gardener]

best of luck sir g.. its amazing to hear from someone is planning Sensory Garden here..