Sensory Gardens: A Landscape to Enjoy with All Five Senses

Traditional gardens focus mainly on visual beauty, but a sensory garden goes much further. This type of landscape design is intended to be a complete experience, where every corner of the outdoor space is designed to stimulate the five senses: sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch. For Handiscapes, the concept of a sensory garden aligns perfectly with our philosophy of creating inclusive and accessible spaces for everyone.

How to Create a Complete Sensory Experience

Designing a sensory garden doesn't require large areas of land, but rather careful planning and the right choice of elements.

1. Stimulate Sight (Beyond Flowers):

• Colors and contrasts: Use plants with foliage of different shades and textures. Combine the dark green of a shrub with the light green of a fern or the silver color of lavender.

• Shapes and structures: Incorporate architectural elements like pergolas, fountains, or sculptures. The different shapes of leaves, stems, and flowers also contribute to a rich visual experience.

• Lighting: Use strategic lights to highlight areas or create a magical atmosphere at night.

  
  

2. Accentuate Sound (A Garden with Its Own Soundtrack):

• The sound of water: A small fountain, a waterfall, or a pond can create a relaxing and natural background.

• The rustle of plants: Bamboo or tall grasses move with the breeze, creating a soft and soothing sound.

• Local fauna: Choose plants that attract birds and pollinating insects, so their songs and buzzing add to the sound experience.

3. Awaken Smell (A Fragrant Garden):

• Intoxicating aromas: Plant aromatic species near paths or resting areas. Choose plants like jasmine, gardenias, or citrus.

• Aromatic herbs: Mint, rosemary, and basil not only perfume the air but are also useful in the kitchen.

• Subtle fragrance species: Consider plants like honeysuckle or some varieties of roses that offer a delicate and pleasant fragrance.

4. Invite Touch (A Garden for Feeling):

• Varied textures: Incorporate plants with different textures so people can feel them. Plants with soft leaves (like lamb's ear), thick leaves, spines, or smooth stems offer an interesting tactile experience.

• Natural materials: Choose path surfaces with different textures, such as smooth stones, gravel, or wood.

• Interactive objects: Add elements like stone balls or benches with textures so people can touch them while they relax.

5. Include Taste (A Garden for Tasting):

• Edible plants: Grow fruits, vegetables, or edible herbs. A small urban garden or a planter with strawberries and lettuce is an excellent way to add the sense of taste to the garden.

• Harvest within reach: Place these plants in accessible areas so people with reduced mobility can easily harvest them.

The Importance of Sensory Gardens in Accessible Design

For people with visual or mobility disabilities, a sensory garden is much more than a beautiful place; it is a space where they can fully interact with nature. By focusing the design on the other senses, these gardens remove barriers and offer an experience of well-being, relaxation, and connection with the natural environment. They are proof that a well-thought-out design can be beautiful, functional, and inclusive.

Conclusion

Creating a sensory garden is a way to rediscover nature and its infinite possibilities. At Handiscapes, we believe that these spaces are essential for a full and accessible life. By considering each of the five senses, we are not just designing a garden; we are creating a refuge of peace and stimulation for everyone.