Outdoor environment


the specialist landscape company has an aftersales service.


The outcome


The end product should be a garden that enriches the lives of those who will benefit from it. Within every care setting, the space should be inclusive – regardless of disability and ability.


For those who are still physically able


and active, helping around the garden is an uplifting way to feel involved, be it planting, digging, pruning, or simply looking after animals, such as chickens and rabbits. For those who are less active, just


watching and enjoying the activity of others, and the daily changes of light, shade, and weather conditions, the growth of plants, and the wildlife is equally as beneficial. Eating outside, reading a newspaper, or simply chatting with family is extremely refreshing, and a safe, secure garden with seats to sit on and things to do makes such a difference to their lives. Research has shown that expertly and


well-designed gardens in care homes help older residents maintain, or even improve, their mental and physical health. The benefits extend to improved sleep patterns, reducing anxiety and reducing dependency on others by increased time spent outdoors. This makes for happier residents, families and friends and importantly team members too. This is why the initial research and design process is crucial when developing a sensory garden.


Care home case study A care home was looking to create a sensory garden and sensory outdoor space that provided inclusivity and access to all residents.


Many residents within the setting had mobility issues, therefore stable ground and clear pathways were key. The setting wanted to create a unique outdoor space that allowed for numerous activities for their residents. They wanted the space to be therapeutic and inviting; a space rich in opportunities that residents, their families and care providers were happy to spend time outside enjoying.


The setting engaged with Timotay for an initial consultation. During the consultation, the outdoor landscape expert took time to survey the area and meet with stakeholders to understand the setting’s objectives.


From this, the outdoor landscape 34 www.thecarehomeenvironment.com April 2022


expert briefed Timotay’s award-winning design team regarding project objectives and current space usage. The design team then created a number of visuals which encompassed the vision of the stakeholders at the setting.


The design team ensured that all sensory elements were considered, such as planting, noises, touch and smells. They also ensured that the space would be accessible for all and had opportunities for different needs and abilities.


The concepts were then presented to the client through a series of visuals and walkthroughs which brought the design to life. The design included structured paths, sensory planting, lighting, activities such as an outdoor putting green and outdoor chess game as well as numerous seating areas. From client sign off of the designs,


the project management team then took control of the project to work with the client. Timotay’s team of skilled woods craftsmen


and skilled landscapers set to work to create an outstanding sensory garden and outdoor space.


The end result is a care home which now prides itself in its outdoor space and what it has to offer. The space allows residents to relax and reconnect with nature and take part in therapeutic activities with their care providers.


The setting has found that the residents and caregivers spend more time outside in the sensory garden, with the residents more relaxed and connected with their outside environment.


Conclusion


When designing a sensory garden, the simple truth is this: a garden can give so much pleasure to so many.


For those of us who design and create them, there is nothing more rewarding than knowing we are making a big difference to the quality of someone’s life!


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Stuart Humphrey and Rebecca White


Outdoor space expert Stuart Humphrey, Director, and Rebecca White, Marketing Manager of award-winning Timotay Group create inspirational outdoor spaces for care homes, hospitals, SEND settings,


parks, schools and nurseries. Stuart co-founded Timotay in 1987 and has since delivered thousands of inspirational and award-winning outdoor spaces throughout a number of sectors.


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