Many users of therapeutic gardens have difficulty analyzing and identifying danger, so it is important that any outside spaces should be unobtrusively safe and secure. This means, users should not be able to access any potentially unsafe or unsuitable area.
The purpose of limits is to provide a safe environment without creating a trapping environment or depriving the person of their human rights. Creating environmental barriers will allow the staff to feel relaxed and comfortable to encourage the users to go outside.
There is a danger that limits, such as fences and walls, create a feeling of imprisonment. Therefore, the height and the design of fencing and other barriers are critical factors in the therapeutic gardens.
The height of fences and buildings affects the microclimate within the garden. Very high fencing may cast a shadow and create a cold area where plants cannot thrive and users are uncomfortable. The minimum acceptable height as not to feel imprisoned is recommended.
The visual impact of a fence can usually be concealed with plants that draw the attention away from the perimeter. Another example is if the garden is on a terrace, then a balustrade (fence) is crucial. To keep a normal, no to high, designed look of the fence, one can add an inward slope or a curve on the top to make it difficult to climb.
Sometimes a very simple railing is desired because of a beautiful surrounding that should not be visually blocked. The Impeding climbing is important for any barrier. Try to avoid potential foothold on the garden side.
Easy access to the garden starts with a door which should be highly visible. A fully glazed door is recommended, but it is important to ensure the door is clearly distinguishable from the glazing on either side. Doors should be very easy to understand and the door handle clearly visible and easy to operate both for residents and staff. In case of wheelchair users, the doors could be self-opening or at least possible to be held open or have an overhead door closer which stops the door from shutting too quickly.
It can be very helpful to have some “In between” spaces, very common in cold countries. These are transition areas between the indoor and outdoor spaces. Where you can store boots, sun hats, scarfs, a place to stop and change to the new state of mind. Coat hooks and umbrella stands can be placed along with shoe benches and traditional barometers.