Donna Louise Hospice, Stoke on Trent

At Donna Louise Children’s Hospice in Stoke on Trent we designed and built an interactive Play and Sensory Garden in Spring 2013.  This hospice cares for and supports families who have life-limiting conditions across Cheshire and Staffordshire.

This garden leads from the hospice building out into an area divided into several areas so there is something for everyone.  The centre attraction for many children is visiting a giant ‘dragon’ wooden planter that has been planted with scented herbs and vegetables that as well as looking good help the children to get involved in growing and tending plants that they can then enjoy eating.  Raised beds set amongst stone paths constructed with oak sleepers are also filled with

A wooden pergola covered in climbing plants provides the perfect area for picnic benches and seating for families to enjoy alfresco meals together or simply a space to sit and reflect.  The climbing plants also provide shade for when it is hot.

A beautiful gazing ball has been set in a colourful border filled to bursting with colourful perennials and reflects the garden, blue skies and clouds for the children to marvel at from ground level.

And the much loved playground provides hours of fun for younger children with its climbing frame and swings.  The wheelchair accessible roundabout means that siblings can all play and have fun together, all the while being in a safe and protected environment.