A Consensus on the Senses
A growing trend in commercial landscape design is the creation of Sensory Gardens—dedicated green spaces designed to engage the five senses. These inviting pockets of nature offer visitors a reason to pause, reconnect, and leave feeling better than when they arrived. But what exactly are sensory gardens, and should you consider one for your property?
Many people associate sensory gardens with children—spaces filled with textures, scents, and sounds that encourage play and exploration. This is certainly one purpose, and the benefits for children are well documented. Richard Louv, author of The Last Child in the Woods, describes a growing issue he calls “Nature Deficit Disorder,” highlighting how limited outdoor play is impacting the physical and mental health of today’s youth. In a world filled with screens and fewer opportunities for outdoor adventure, his point rings true.
But what about adults? Can sensory gardens support our well-being too? Research says yes. According to a study published by the National Library of Medicine, individuals with dementia showed reduced symptoms after spending time in sensory garden spaces. Similarly, a study in the American Journal of Occupational Therapy found that college students who visited sensory gardens experienced lower stress levels and improved mental health.
Whether your property is a resort, medical facility, or business park, a sensory garden can enhance the visitor experience by offering a moment of calm in a fast-paced world. Modern life leaves few opportunities to truly rest within our senses, and mental health concerns are at an all-time high. Providing even a small sensory retreat not only benefits guests and staff—it can improve overall satisfaction and enhance your reputation. In fact, businesses with intentional outdoor spaces often report higher customer satisfaction on feedback surveys.
What Should a Sensory Garden Include?
Sensory gardens can be customized to fit the size, purpose, and style of your property.
• Medical Facilities: Focus on quiet, shaded spaces with gentle sensory engagement to promote relaxation.
• Resorts: Incorporate themed elements—such as a lava rock bed paired with bamboo that rustles softly in the breeze—to match your location’s atmosphere.
• Business Parks: Create a “no phone zone” featuring a bench, water feature, and fragrant jasmine for a refreshing midday escape.
Each garden should engage the five senses:
• Taste: Herb planters or edible flowers like violas, with an invitation to sample.
• Touch: Soft and textured plants such as Lamb’s Ear, strawflowers, or bumpy succulents.
• Sound: Bubbling fountains, wooden chimes, or rustling bamboo.
• Smell: Fragrant blooms and plants like roses, jasmine, gardenias, or citrus trees.
• Sight: Vibrant flowers such as zinnias and sunflowers, or calming greens like sage, orchids, and ferns.
Sensory and therapeutic gardens create inclusive, restorative spaces that welcome everyone. If you’re ready to design a retreat that enriches both your visitors and your space, contact us today to begin planning your sensory garden.
