Following the success of the planting I previously did for Guild Care, I was asked to develop a reminiscence area inspired by the seaside. This south facing suntrap now includes a seating area in front of a shed cum beach hut. The raised beds create easy access to sensory planting, with hard landscaping in between to allow wheelchair access.

When I was called in to rescue this courtyard in a sheltered housing scheme, the garden was almost entirely covered in slabs. It also had oddly placed slopes, which resulted in the residents avoiding the area for fear of falling. After discussing with them what they really wanted from the space, new beds were built and filled with exciting plants and a new permanent seating area was constructed in the sunniest corner. As the residents were keen on a water feature too, one was made using a watering can  – this has become a talking point among their families and visiting friends. The awkward slopes have likewise been addressed, with the result that the residents now feel safe to use this previously neglected space at last.

This little corner garden measures only 4 meters by 4 (12 feet if you prefer imperial measurements) and has been packed full with exotic yet hardy plants. The tall evergreens hide most of the surrounding buildings and give a feeling of being completely cut off from the everyday world. In between the plants, gaps were left for some colorful seasonal planting- coppery tulips in spring and bold annuals in the summer.

The owner of this flat wanted to make the most of the adjoining outside area, before putting the property on the market. The space consisted of a patch of gravel with absolutely no planting. The job needed to create instant impact, but with the work having to be completed quickly. A raised deck was built to create a cosier feel, and big plants were added to green up the space and make it feel more like a real garden.

When Guild Care built their Dementia home, they wanted its garden to be colourful and stimulating but safe for its residents. This particular bed contains cheerful yellow flowers, grasses for movement and touch and roses for smell. Smell being a particularly strong element used to bring back happy memories. The toxicity of all plants included in the whole garden was taken into account so that even if residents ate some during a moment of confusion, they would not suffer any ill effects.