Archie – Domestic SEN Garden
Project Overview
We recently completed this interactive Sensory Garden for a gorgeous little boy called Archie Page – Archie, 3 of Broadstairs, Kent has a severe form of cerebral palsy and epilepsy which means that he requires 24/7 specialist care and support.
Due to his disabilities he spends a large amount of his time at their home, being cared for by parents Debbie and David and when he feels able, has respite care from specialist trained nurses at nearby Demelza House.
Family and friends of Archie have been working hard fundraising through the Tree Of Hope Children’s Charity to support their desire to create a bespoke sensory play garden for Archie, so that he can spend quality time outdoors at home.
The Outcome
The final design consisted of multi-sensory bespoke play equipment to aid Archie in the development of his motor skills. The play garden, which completed at the beginning of July includes;
• Nest Swing
• Sunlight Arch
• Interactive Water Wall
• Colourful Totems
• Raised Garden Beds
• Sensory Planting
• Artificial Grass Seating
• Bespoke Paving
Client Feedback
Gary Cornhill, Creative Director for Timotay Playscapes said “when we met Debbie, David, Archie and his younger brother Jack, we talked at length about how we could transform their current unusable outdoor space. The brief was to provide Archie with a safe and fun environment that he could use within the restrictions of his condition, and enjoy all-year-round.
It was also important for the family to have a space that they could all enjoy socially and that brother Jack could play in – the whole team really enjoyed bringing this setting to life for Archie and his family, he is a very special little boy and it fills us with pride to see how happy they all are with the final outcome”.
Debbie Chapman, Archie’s mum said “Since the garden has been finished and all the updates on social media, I have been overwhelmed by the response we have had! I have been getting messages and emails from strangers asking me for advice and how to go about getting a garden like Archie’s.” I don’t think people actually believe that something like what we have achieved was even possible! I spent a long time trying to find Timotay and even then, thought that it was out of reach, or that they wouldn’t get my vision for Archie – but luckily for us, they really did.”
