When one’s ability to navigate through space and time is impaired by memory loss, attempting to get out to enjoy the subtle beauty of the Australian bush could well be a nightmare. In such a case, the memory loss is compounded by the loss of being able to enjoy the healing power of nature. The jury was profoundly moved by the spirit and humility of the design and its impact on people who have dementia and those who care for them. Acknowledging the project’s limited budget, they were impressed by the “ground-truthing” the design evidences – that is, the giving of attention to both the sensory enjoyment of the users and the pragmatic requirements of equitable access. The Woowookarung Dementia-Friendly Forest and Sensory Trail is an excellent example of the landscape architect displaying restraint in design and allowing the landscape to shine.
Woowookarung Dementia-Friendly Forest and Sensory Trail is located in Canadian, Victoria on the land of the Wadawurrung people.
Project credits
Head consultant and landscape architect Thomson Hay Landscape Architects Surveyor and civil and structural engineer Cardno (now Stantec) Access consultant Vincent McDonald Architect Flora and fauna specialist Roger Thomas Photographers Gavin Nash, Georgia Carroll
To view all the winners of the 2022 National Landscape Architecture Awards, go here.
