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Communal gardens: redesigning of a seating area.
Seeking to re-imagine how we use some of the spaces around my area, I sought an opportunity to practice the redesign of an empty space in my block of flats parking lot that is in yearning for a makeover!
![](https://knieman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screen-Shot-2023-08-14-at-16.57.04-1024x641.png)
![](https://knieman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screen-Shot-2023-08-14-at-16.56.55-1024x700.png)
The “garden” is fenced with a single entrance, surrounded by a shed for bins. Trees punctuate the landscape, and gravel covers the centre. Yet, the space feels uninviting and cold, even during summer with the trees in their best shape.
![](https://knieman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screen-Shot-2023-08-14-at-16.58.19-1024x668.png)
Notably, the lack of planned plantings casts a brown palette and the absence of a deliberately hard landscape makes this space almost unnoticed. The single entrance restricts movement, and the garden’s potential for relaxation remains untapped.
If I had the chance to redesign, I would start by changing the entrances, adding two at the edges and connecting them with a central path. This would create an inviting flow and a purposeful passage with an ivy-covered pergola that would provide shade on sunny days and light during the night [1].
![](https://knieman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Screen-Shot-2023-08-14-at-17.00.05-1024x881.png)
To address the lack of colour, a low-maintenance gravel terrain with light colour stones would bring vibrancy [2]. Grass between the stones would infuse greenery.
Finally, the addition of a central furniture piece will redefine the garden’s functionality. [3] Combining a bench and cachepot, this multifunctional element will host a variety of edible and ornamental plants. [4] Not only will this change elevate the aesthetic appeal, but it will also create a space that serves all residents, fostering a sense of community.
![](https://knieman.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/IMG_5459.png)
By: Karine Nieman
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