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This view shows some of the proposed play equipment as viewed from the existing path near the Kei Apple. The croquet lawn can be seen in the background.
The vegetable patch will allow children to touch, smell and taste herbs and vegetables, and learn about edible plants. A feature Mulberry tree will link to the proposed Dry Climate Edible Horticultural Collection.
Deciduous fruit trees will provide shade in summer and seasonal interest, while hedges enclose the space.
The vegetable patch will also be used for programmed planting activities.
A decorative fence will incorporate musical elements providing a visually stimulating backdrop to the space.
The planted arbour behind will provide a sense of moving through a 'green tunnel' to children.
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In this section of the proposed secret garden, materials from plants will be used to stimulate play activity. Log steppers salvaged from the Gardens’ trees will be used to highlight an entry, and smaller loose pieces used as chequers on the chess board.
The Secret Garden will be a quiet space enclosed by the fence and hedging, and will be well shaded in summer by the existing Elm tree. The large rocks from the existing play space will be re-used in this space. The fence will open towards the Kei Apple tree, linking it into the new play space.
Piles of seeds, acorns and cones will be provided for touching, sorting and stacking activities.
Supported Activities The play space will support a number of temporary and permanent programmmes and activities. Some could be managed without a teacher, while others could be part of a facilitated school holiday program.
Treasure Hunt
Gardening Classes
Plant Craft
This could either be a self-directed activity with worksheets provided, or as a part of an organised event.
The play space could be used to run small classes with a horticultural focus. These could include:
It can include:
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vegetable gardening
Art and craft classes for young children could be held in the Secret Garden, based around plant products. They can include making:
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collecting a particular seed
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potting up succulents
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a pinecone bird feeder
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taking a rubbing of an object
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bugs in the garden
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acorn & flower jewellry
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answering a question about a vegetable
These classes could be run by volunteers.
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weaving sticks
These will be developed over time as resources become available and demand grows.
Sheets could be changed over time reflecting changes in the play space.
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leaf paintings
These classes could be run by volunteers.
Heritage Garden Play Space - Artist Impressions
Picture puzzles to work out plant names will be placed in the vegetable garden and around the play space.
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Croquet Lawn Herb & Vegetable Patch
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These will be changed regularly to focus on particular plants, and engage children with the horticultural aspects of the space.
Secret Garden
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zzles Plant Name Pu
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Seeds and cones from the Gardens' Collections will be gathered and placed amongst some log bowls for sorting and organising.
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Seed S
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orting S
tation
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A mirror is hidden in the hedge as a visual trick for children to discover.
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Scale 14 0 0.5 1
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irror
While from afar it seems as if there is a path through the hedge, from close up small children can enjoy inspecting their own reflection.
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Indicative (artist impressions) only
The new play space will invite children and their carers to explore and participate in a range of play activities. The design for the play space is inspired by 19th century style gardens of delight, and the timeless children’s literature that’s set in them.
Play Equipment
Secret Garden
Croquet Lawn
The proposed equipment will provide for swinging, climbing, jumping and rocking activities. The equipment will be shaded in summer by deciduous fruiting trees. Seating will also be provided for carers, as well as a drinking fountain.
The Secret Garden provides a variety of sensory and imaginative play opportunities. It includes perennial flowers for colour and seasonal change.
An undulating grass lawn enclosed by hedges where children can use the croquet equipment provided or simply enjoy playing on the rolling grassy slopes. A pair of giant 'throne' chairs will overlook the space.
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Hand operated water pump and stone table
Mini trampoline
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Oversize chequers set
Multiplay activity unit
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Hidden mirror
Ladybird rocker
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Sculpted child-size table & chairs
Double seesaw rocker
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Fallen branch for climbing
Double swing including toddler seat
Other Design Features
The Vegetable Patch
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Legend
An arbour structure covered with vines, providing a quiet and shaded experience.
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Decorative fence with musical feature
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Sculpted letterbox
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Retain existing access under the Kei Apple tree
Fruiting Tree Bench seat with back and armrests Sensory planting
Vegetables and herbs will be planted in this garden for children to smell, taste and learn about. These will be changed seasonally.
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Drinking fountain View (see next page)
Heritage Garden Play Space - Concept Plan