Down’s Syndrome Scotland Garden

Inspired by co-designer Duncan Hall’s nephew Liam, the garden hopes to help challenge the misconceptions and barriers faced by people in Liam’s community and encourage society to change their perceptions so people with Down’s syndrome can fulfil their life potential.

Visitors enter this immersive, semi-wooded garden on a ‘crazy paving’ path through two main areas of planting, each conveying contrasting moods. The garden path ends at a feature building, with colourful decorative tiles scattered into the paving at the entrance, injecting a sense of playfulness.

This focal structure is surrounded by tall river birch trees with delicate hanging branches and is designed to look and feel like a comforting ‘hug’ – reflecting the affection often displayed by people with Down’s syndrome. A ground-level water pool with a hidden walkway just beneath the surface acts as a metaphor for the barriers and misconceptions faced by people with Down’s syndrome.

The naturalistic planting includes Betula nigra, Pinus sylvestris, Iris sibirica ‘Tropic Night’, Primula florindae and Arisaema candidissimum.

This garden celebrates the life of people with Down’s syndrome through its reflection on common qualities such as their compassion and empathy, as well as their positivity and determination.

At a glance:

Who would use this garden?
The Garden is open to all as it seeks to inform and develop the public about the value and potential of people with Down’s syndrome. At its relocation site, it will support young people and adults with additional support needs to learn new skills, grow in confidence, gain horticultural qualifications and become more independent.
Where is the garden set?
Within a semi-wooded setting.
Who or what is the design inspiration for the garden?
Duncan Hall’s young nephew Liam who is supported by Down’s Syndrome Scotland.
 

Garden legacy:

The garden will be relocated to the garden managed in a partnership with Down’s Syndrome Scotland, by the charity Watch US Grow, at Palacerigg Country Park, North Lanarkshire, Scotland.