Our brief was to create a space that will be usable all year round and inviting to all residents suffering from dementia.

The key element to the design was to create a looped pathway so that residents could continuously walk and enjoy the gardens. All green spaces i.e lawn areas were replaced with artificial lawn therefore lawns could be walked on all year round without muddy feet! These green spaces also double as seating areas in summer.

The next important design feature was a range of different garden styles spaced around the pathways, for example in this particular design we went for a coastal themed garden with shell that crunches (sensory) triggering senses sound and texture. The largest garden bed was designed to be a sensory garden that triggers sight smell and texture. We also included two raised garden beds planted with a range of herbs that residents can help with the care of and enjoy picking.

This engagement of the residents is part of the success of any dementia garden design. We also included decked areas, for the purpose of seating, this has become a very popular area enjoyed by residents and their families. Since the introduction of this new garden, this facility now has a waiting list for residents.