PROJECTS

A playful, inclusive garden that nurtures children with autism through scent, texture, movement, and nature.

Caudwell Children's Wild Garden

Co-designed with Dr Julie Crocombe, a clinical psychologist specialising in neurodevelopmental conditions, the garden was originally created for RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival in 2017, where it won RHS Gold, RHS Best in Show, and the BBC People’s Choice Award. Following its success, Davies White Ltd adapted the garden for the new Caudwell International Children’s Centre at Keele University; a purpose-built facility that opened in 2018 to support children with developmental disabilitiees.

The garden highlights highlights the vital role of outdoor spaces for children with autism and developmental disabilities. Time in nature is linked to a 71% reduction in anxiety and 95% of parents report improved mood and behaviour in their children (Natural England, 2020). The garden’s design supports emotional regulation, sensory integration (up to 90% improvement), and enhanced motor skills, while exposure to green space has been shown to reduce ADHD symptoms by 30% and increase concentration and social interaction.

Completed:  2018 Client: Caudwell Children Budget:  £300K Funding: Zoflora UK

The reimagined garden includes grassy mounds, secret mushroom caves, a giant spinning boulder, scent pots, a hollow oak log, water play features, and sheltered retreats; all designed to encourage exploration, inclusivity, and therapeutic engagement for children and their families.