Home / Lifestyle / Garden Engages All Senses at Flower Show
Garden Engages All Senses at Flower Show
19 May
Summary
- Garden features plants for touching, smelling, and tasting.
- Soundscape inspired by plant bioelectric signals is a key feature.
- Design prioritizes accessibility for visitors with disabilities.

Designers Peter Karn, Janice Molyneux, and Sarah Fisher have created an inclusive sensory garden for the Chelsea flower show in London, aiming to engage visitors with and without disabilities. The garden incorporates plants chosen for their textures, aromas, and tastes, including lamb's ear, star jasmine, and a variety of herbs like fennel and thyme. These elements are designed to be safe and stimulating for all, with nothing harmful to touch or taste.
The garden also features a unique 'sensory soundscape' composed by Dr. Helen Wilson. This sound installation is inspired by the bioelectric signals of the plants themselves, translating their 'aliveness' into rhythms and melodic phrases. The intention is to offer an immersive experience that can be explored through touch, smell, and sound, even with eyes closed.
Accessibility is a core principle, with features like wheelchair-turning circles, contrasting path colors, and tiered containers for easy reach. The design ensures a gentle, sensory experience as visitors move through the space. The project reflects Sightsavers' broader mission to promote equality and support people with disabilities globally.