MUD’s design sought to create a tranquil and lush garden sanctuary that would be loved by the local community and engage passers-by, transform a dilapidated and uninspired community space, and to give birth to a community place where people could come together because of the shared interests of community, gardening, and sustainability.

The design incorporated engaging and intelligent elements that would spark curiosity and a desire to explore and participate. These included the construction of a towering and stunning arbor at the entrance to the garden. The use of reclaimed railway sleepers to create garden beds, which were installed in an intelligent and practical manner to enclose the site, facilitate ease of navigation for patrons and to immerse the individual upon entry – vegetation growth from the garden secreting them away from the hustle and bustle of the busy street.

Interestingly, rather than specify planting arrangements and layout MUD encouraged collaboration with community to determine planting. This partnership resulted in a contribution from the community that made it their own – crucial to achieving integration and accepted ownership.