Abigail’s Footsteps

The garden is a calming and contemplative space that seeks to offer support and comfort to parents who are searching for solace when faced with the monumental loss of their baby. It is a series of interconnected spaces that reflect the transitions parents experience, with a tranquil planting palette featuring soft-textured and scented plants.

The small pavers and charred oak setts, representing the small steps that parents initially take, are gradually replaced by larger porcelain pavers, interplanted with Soleirolia. A seating area provides privacy and a feeling of enclosure. Raised beds, filled with tactile and fragrant planting, sit next to reflection pools to further enhance the feeling of security and calm. Clipped topiary nestles among the planting. Key trees include multi-stemmed birch and Amelanchier. The planting is predominantly green and pastel incorporating lime, white, lemon and soft pinks.