Semi-private green offers an experience of nature for those urban residents who either have no private green space, have no time or desire to garden themselves, or are not able to maintain an entire garden on their own. Collective funds can be set aside for routine maintenance if there is no one who takes the initiative to organise this between residents. Community involvement can be requested to decide how the space is used and set quality standards for maintenance
Users change over time and everyone has a different idea of how common private green spaces are or should be used. (Peace, quiet, relaxation and healing versus gardening, socializing, playing). Unless the intent is clear in the design and fellow residents set up the ground rules, the success of the space is limited.
People who otherwise cannot maintain their own gardens are sometimes those who profit the most from gardening activities and exposure to nature. People in hospitals, elderly homes, mental illness facilities, children’s hospitals, Alzheimers facilities, and other institutions can all benefit. Provide accessible therapeutic gardens including raised beds, barrier-free paths, sensory stimulating environments which awaken the five senses, and places to relax. People with dementia that are able to work in the garden have lower negative emotions and anger episodes than patients with no access to gardening.
Spaces which can be occasionally or partially closed off and are within view of the user groups add to the success of semi-private green. The chances of low quality maintenance, misuse of the space and vandalism are reduced. Rooftops are beneficial because of their multifunctionality in dense urban settings.
Provide city residents/workers/patients in dense urban environments with usable green space they can collectively call their own.
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People with dementia that are able to work in the garden have lower negative emotions and anger episodes than patients with no access to gardening.