Home 9 Sensory Gardens

Sensory Gardens

Meaningful outdoor spaces designed with purpose

At AJT Landscaping, we design and build bespoke sensory gardens that provide calming, engaging and inclusive outdoor environments.

Based in Ash, Surrey, we work with private clients, schools, charities and community organisations across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey, creating thoughtful spaces that support wellbeing, learning and connection.

With over 14 years’ experience in garden landscaping and play-focused design, we are deeply passionate about creating sensory gardens that make a genuine difference for children, young people and adults.

What is a sensory garden?

A sensory garden is a thoughtfully designed outdoor space created to stimulate the senses – sight, sound, touch, smell and sometimes taste. These gardens encourage interaction with the natural environment while supporting wellbeing, learning and relaxation. They are often designed to:

Support learning and development

Promote calm and emotional regulation

Encourage exploration and interaction

Provide inclusive access for people of all abilities

Sensory gardens can be playful or peaceful, structured or natural, depending on who will use the space. They are commonly created for schools, nurseries, specialist education settings, community spaces and private gardens, providing safe and engaging outdoor environments for a wide range of users.

Our approach to sensory garden design

Every sensory garden we create is completely bespoke. We begin with a detailed conversation to understand who the space is for, how it will be used and which sensory elements are most important. Our process includes:

A free garden design consultation

Thoughtful layout planning and zoning

Optional fully rendered 3D visuals to help visualise the final space

Careful material selection to support sensory engagement

We design with empathy, creativity and purpose, ensuring the space feels welcoming, accessible and meaningful.

Our approach to sensory garden design

Every sensory garden we create is completely bespoke. We begin with a detailed conversation to understand who the space is for, how it will be used and which sensory elements are most important. Our process includes:

A free garden design consultation

Thoughtful layout planning and zoning

Optional fully rendered 3D visuals to help visualise the final space

Careful material selection to support sensory engagement

We design with empathy, creativity and purpose, ensuring the space feels welcoming, accessible and meaningful.

Sensory garden features we create

Each sensory garden is unique, but features may include:
Textured pathways and surfaces
Raised beds for accessible planting
Calm seating areas and quiet zones
Fragrant and tactile plants
Subtle water or sound features where appropriate
Natural materials such as timber, stone and sleepers
All elements are chosen to suit the users, the environment and the intended sensory outcomes.

Sensory gardens for communities, schools & charities

We are proud to work with local communities, schools and charities to create outdoor spaces that provide meaningful, long-term benefits for the people who use them.

Our work spans a range of community-focused projects, from sensory gardens designed to support children with additional needs, to shared growing spaces that bring people together.

We are currently supporting Challengers, a charity that works with disabled children, young people and their families. AJT Landscapes has been involved in helping shape plans for a sensory garden, creating a safe and engaging outdoor environment tailored to their needs.

Alongside this, we recently had the pleasure of working with The Green Hub at Farncombe Community Garden. This project involved building new raised beds and helping develop a space that will be used and enjoyed by the local community for years to come.

These projects reflect our ongoing commitment to using our skills to create positive, lasting impact within the communities we work in.

Private sensory gardens for homes

Sensory gardens are also becoming increasingly popular in private homes, offering peaceful retreats, stimulating play environments or calming outdoor spaces tailored to family needs.

Whether subtle or feature-led, we design sensory gardens that integrate beautifully with the wider garden.

Why choose AJT Landscaping for your sensory garden design?

Passionate about purpose-led design

We care deeply about the impact these spaces have on people’s lives.

Experienced & trusted team

Over 14 years of professional landscaping experience.

Community & charity focused

Proud supporters of local initiatives and organisations.

Local landscaping specialists

Based in Ash, serving Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey.

More than just sensory gardens

Our sensory garden service often forms part of a wider landscaping project. Check out some of our other landscaping services.

Garden Design

Handcrafted Play Equipment

Soft Play Areas

Turf & Artificial Turf

Sensory gardens FAQs

What is a sensory garden?
A sensory garden is an outdoor space designed to stimulate the senses – sight, sound, touch, smell and sometimes taste. These gardens are carefully planned to encourage interaction, learning, calm and wellbeing for people of all ages and abilities.
Who are sensory gardens suitable for?
Sensory gardens can benefit a wide range of users, including children, young people, adults with additional needs, families, schools, charities and community groups. They are suitable for both private gardens and shared outdoor spaces.
Can sensory gardens be designed for specific needs?
Yes. Every sensory garden we create is fully bespoke. We design each space around the specific needs of the individuals or groups using it, considering accessibility, sensory preferences and how the space will be used.
What features can be included in a sensory garden?
Sensory gardens can include textured surfaces, raised planting beds, fragrant plants, natural materials, seating areas, interactive elements and calming features. Each element is chosen to support sensory engagement and comfort.
Do you offer a design service for sensory gardens?
Yes. We offer a free garden design consultation, and for larger or more detailed projects we can provide fully rendered 3D visuals to help you visualise the final sensory garden before work begins.
Do you create sensory gardens for schools and charities?
Yes. We regularly work with schools, charities and community organisations, delivering sensory gardens that support learning, wellbeing and inclusion. We are proud to have supported Disability Challengers by building a sensory garden for the children they support.
Can sensory gardens be installed in small or awkward spaces?
Yes. Sensory gardens can be designed to suit spaces of all sizes, including compact or challenging areas. Careful layout and thoughtful feature selection ensure the space remains functional and engaging.
How long does it take to create a sensory garden?
Timescales vary depending on the size and complexity of the project. After the consultation and design stage, we’ll provide a clear timeline so you know exactly what to expect.
Where do you offer sensory garden installation services?
AJT Landscaping is based in Ash and provides sensory garden design and installation across Hampshire, Berkshire and Surrey.
How do I get started with a sensory garden project?
Simply book a free, no-obligation consultation with Alex. We’ll discuss your goals, assess the space and start designing a sensory garden that creates a meaningful and lasting impact.

Book a free sensory garden consultation

If you’re considering a sensory garden for a school, community space, charity or private garden, we’d love to help.

Book a free, no-obligation consultation with Alex to discuss your ideas and explore how we can create a space that truly supports its users.

Contact AJT Landscaping today to start designing a meaningful sensory garden.