Sensory gardens: Assessing their design and use

Abstract

This article investigates the design and use of sensory gardens by evaluating their zones and how they are utilized. Preliminary site studies were undertaken in 14 sensory gardens around the UK, followed by more detailed data collection at two case-study sites. The aim was to discover features that enable user behaviours and use of spaces in sensory gardens. The data collection included interview, observation and behaviour mapping, which is used in conjunction with affordance theory. The findings from the data analysis also draw on Moore and Cosco's multi-method approach.