Is it possible to have a garden that lets children play and explore as well as being an adult space for gardeners and plantsmen?
I’ve always viewed gardens and parks as somewhere to be used and enjoyed. And as somebody who works with children as well as appreciating plants and landscape design, I have for a very long time been intrigued in how gardens and public spaces have deliberately designed places for children (and/or the young at heart) to explore, have fun, provide excitement, as well as offering peace and tranquillity when wanted. Places such as:
- Schloss Hellbrunn, Salzburg, Austria
- Hever Castle, Kent, UK
- Westfalen Park, Dortmund, Germany
- Groombridge Place, Groombridge, UK
- Sir Harold Hillier Arboreatum, Hampshire, UK
And plenty more that I’ve visited or know about, but not included here. However, all of these have huge grounds. Knowing childrens’ natural proclivity to explore and find adventure in smaller, I wondered whether it’s possible to create a space which appeals to adults and children alike. What could be done in a small space like you’d typically have in English urban backgardens. What could be done on a limited budget? Is it possible to have a small garden that still meets everybody’s needs?
It wasn’t until I actually got my own garden that I was able to start putting theory into practice. It does not have a lot of space, at least by international standards, although quite large by modern UK standards. It’s an 8m x 33m (26 x 100 feet). I also have a rather limited budget for doing things. So no major work or installations costing thousands.
However, it does mean that what I have tried is likely to be within reach and possible by many others who don’t have access to loads of money to spend. It remains to be seen what could be envisaged and done on a much bigger budget. I must admit it would be interesting to see what would change in my approach to creating the hybrid garden. Possibly not much, just speed things up a bit or maybe add a water feature or two I’ve always fancied having 🙂
I’ll let the images tell that story of what I’ve created so far.
Have, I been successful? You decide. I know it’s a place children love playing and frequently ask to return. Although a good part of that has been the attitude to let children be themselves and explore. If they want to get wet and/or muddy, they can regardless of season or weather.
The pond is in it’s second incarnation, relocated and increased in size to include stepping stones, a rocky stream bed to walk along and a small waterfall. Inspired by a visit to Carding Mill Valley, Shropshire.
Above all, it’s also a tranquil space I love looking at and being in. It is a work in progress as things change and develop, plants grow, multiply and also unfortunately die. The process is fun, challenging and I’ve learnt a lot. If nothing else a greater appreciation for the garden and the different growing conditions around it. One surprise has been the self-seeded microclimate of ferns and other plants that now exists under the inground trampoline.
Would I be happy to design other gardens? I’m always up for the challenge.
Follow my progress and thoughts on my hybrid garden here:
