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INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION

OLFACTORY GARDEN 2023

RESULTS!

The Winners!

OLFACTORY GARDEN 2023

Mitali M Mahashabde

India

Gabriela Kwasowska, Anna Krystkowicz & Marta Kozłow

Poland

Yicheng Xu, Qiao Yong, Cai Yuxin & Abdukadir

China

First Prize Winners

Mitali M Mahashabde

India

Mitali M Mahashabde, a third-year Architecture and Planning student at Malaviya National Institute of Technology Jaipur, discovered the Olfactory Garden Design Competition on social media. She seized the opportunity to participate in this prestigious international competition, aiming to design inclusive and sensory-rich environments. Her project, 'Blossoms in Braille Garden,' reflects her passion for accessibility, horticulture, and creative design.

Inspired by the idea of merging nature's beauty with inclusivity, Mitali aimed to create a garden that transcends visual barriers, inviting individuals of all abilities to explore and connect with the natural world through touch, scent, and sound. The garden, designed for The Sri Rakum School of Blinds in Bangalore, India, incorporates Braille labels, tactile pathways, and a diverse range of fragrant plants to provide an immersive and educational experience.

By winning first place in the competition, Mitali's achievement has fueled her passion for creating meaningful and inclusive spaces. She looks forward to further developing 'Blossoms in Braille Garden' and contributing to the field of accessible design and horticulture as she continues her academic journey.

Can you describe your inspiration behind the design concept for the olfactory garden?

The inspiration behind my design was to weave together different aromatic elements to create a harmonious sensory experience, drawing from nature's diverse palette of fragrances to stimulate the senses, variety of textures to stimulate touch and introducing soothing sounds to stimulate hearing. Additionally, I was deeply influenced by the concept of inclusivity, ensuring that the garden's design caters to people of all abilities, including those with visual impairments, by incorporating tactile elements and Braille labels to enhance their interaction with the garden.

How did you approach the task of selecting plants and natural elements to create a diverse and engaging fragrance palette?

When selecting plants and natural elements for the olfactory garden-
-Firstly, I researched a wide range of aromatic plants, taking into account their blooming seasons, growth habits, and compatibility with the local climate and soil conditions.
-Next, I considered the arrangement and placement of these plants within the garden space. I created zones or "scent clusters" where complementary scents could mingle harmoniously, creating layered and complex fragrances. For example, pairing lavender with rosemary and mint creates a refreshing herbal bouquet, while jasmine and honeysuckle blend for a sweet floral aroma.
-I also incorporated natural elements such as water features, like a gently flowing stream or a small fountain, to add humidity and enhance the diffusion of scents.
-Additionally, I included textured pathways lined with fragrant herbs and flowers, allowing visitors to engage with the plants through touch as well as smell.
Overall, my approach was to curate a diverse yet cohesive fragrance palette that would engage all the senses, creating an immersive and memorable experience in the olfactory garden.

In what ways does your design aim to stimulate and engage visitors' sense of smell on a deep emotional level?

My design aims to stimulate and engage visitors' sense of smell on a deep emotional level by crafting a multi-sensory experience that triggers memories, evokes emotions, and fosters a profound connection with nature.
One key aspect is the strategic arrangement of aromatic plants and flowers in thematic clusters, each designed to elicit specific emotional responses. For instance, a "Calming Grove" may feature lavender, chamomile, and lemon balm, promoting relaxation and tranquillity, while a "Revitalizing Orchard" may blend citrus and mint for an invigorating experience.

Moreover, I incorporated elements like wind chimes, rustling grasses, flowing water to activate visitors' sense of hearing, synergizing with the scents to create a holistic sensory symphony. These auditory cues enhance the emotional impact of the garden, amplifying the overall sensory journey.

Lastly, I integrated interactive elements such as signages in braille, audio guides, allowing visitors to explore and learn about different aromas hands-on, further deepening their emotional engagement and understanding of scent diversity.

How did you ensure that your garden design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment? What considerations were taken into account?

Integrating the olfactory garden design seamlessly with the surrounding environment involved careful consideration of various factors to ensure harmony and cohesion such as
- Selecting plants that are native to the climate: I prioritized native and locally adapted plant species for the garden, ensuring they thrive in the existing soil and climate conditions. This not only promotes biodiversity but also fosters a natural and authentic ecosystem that seamlessly blends with the surrounding landscape.
- Sustainable Practices: Sustainability was a core aspect of the design, incorporating water-saving irrigation systems, eco-friendly materials, and organic gardening practices. These sustainable elements not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to the garden's integration with the broader ecological context.
- Transitional Zones: To facilitate a smooth transition between the garden and its surroundings, I incorporated transitional zones featuring plants that bridge the gap between the garden and adjacent natural or built environments. This creates a gradual shift in vegetation and enhances visual continuity.
- Seasonal Variation: The design accounted for seasonal changes, ensuring that the garden remains visually appealing and integrated throughout the year. This involved selecting plants with staggered blooming periods, incorporating evergreen elements, and considering how different seasons would affect the garden's overall appearance.

Accessibility and inclusivity are important aspects of the project. How does your design cater to visitors of all ages and abilities?

Accessibility and inclusivity are indeed crucial aspects of the olfactory garden design, and my approach focused on creating a space that welcomes visitors of all ages and abilities. Here are several ways my design caters to inclusivity and accessibility:

-Tactile Pathways: I incorporated tactile pathways made of materials with varying textures, such as smooth stones, gravel, and textured pavers. These pathways are designed to guide visitors through the garden using tactile cues, aiding navigation for those with visual impairments and providing a sensory experience for everyone.

-Wheelchair-Friendly Design: The layout of the garden includes wide pathways with railings and ramps where necessary to ensure easy access for visitors using wheelchairs or mobility aids. Benches and seating areas are strategically placed along these pathways to provide resting spots for all visitors.

-Braille Labels: Every plant, feature, and point of interest within the garden is labelled in Braille and audio guides, accompanied by tactile markers for easy identification. This empowers visitors with visual impairments to independently explore and learn about the garden's flora and design elements.

-Sensory Stations: Throughout the garden, interactive sensory stations are set up to engage visitors of all ages and abilities. These stations offer hands-on experiences such as scent jars with different aromas, textured plant samples to touch, and audio guides providing descriptions of the garden's features.

-Multi-Sensory Experiences: The design prioritizes multi-sensory experiences by combining fragrant plants with auditory elements like wind chimes, rustling grasses, and gentle water features. This holistic approach ensures that visitors of varying sensory abilities can immerse themselves fully in the garden's ambiance.

By integrating these features and considerations, my design aims to create an inclusive and accessible environment where visitors of all ages and abilities can connect with nature, learn, and experience the beauty of the olfactory garden.

Can you elaborate on the educational value that your garden design offers? How do you plan to inform visitors about the various plants and their associated fragrances?

1.Interactive Signage: Throughout the garden, interactive signage boards are strategically placed near plant clusters. These signs not only provide information about each plant's botanical details but also describe its fragrance profile, therapeutic properties, and cultural significance. Visitors can engage with these signs by reading the information in multiple languages and braille representations of the plants.
2.Scent Stations: I've incorporated scent stations where visitors can experience and compare different fragrances firsthand. Each station contains scent jars with essential oils or dried botanical samples, allowing visitors to sniff and identify various aromas while reading accompanying descriptions in Braille and standard text.
3.Guided Tours and Workshops: As the garden is designed in the school of blinds campus, it offers guided tours led by knowledgeable educators who share insights into the garden's design, plant selection, and aromatic themes. These tours cater to different age groups and can be customized for school groups, families, or specialized audiences such as individuals with visual impairments.
4.Horticultural Programs: The garden hosts horticultural workshops and programs focused on topics such as plant propagation, herbal remedies, fragrance extraction techniques, and sensory gardening tips. These hands-on activities encourage active participation from the students of the school and empower visitors to apply their newfound knowledge at home or in educational settings.
5.Collaborations with Schools and Institutions: As the garden is designed for the Sri Rakum School of Blinds, partnering with school, botanical institutions, and sensory impairment organizations, the garden facilitates collaborative projects, research initiatives, and educational outreach programs. These partnerships expand the reach of educational resources and foster a community of lifelong learners.

Sustainability and maintenance are key factors in the long-term success of the garden. What sustainable practices have you incorporated into your design, and how do you plan to ensure the garden's upkeep?

Sustainability and maintenance are indeed crucial for the long-term success and vitality of the olfactory garden. Here's how I've incorporated sustainable practices into my design and my plan for ensuring the garden's upkeep:
1.Water Conservation: To minimize water usage, I've implemented a drip irrigation system that delivers water directly to plant roots, reducing evaporation and runoff. Rainwater harvesting systems collect and store rainwater for irrigation purposes, further decreasing reliance on municipal water sources. The water used in waterfall and the pond is filtered and circulated.
2.Native and Drought-Tolerant Plants: The garden primarily features native and drought-tolerant plant species that are well-adapted to the local climate and soil conditions. These plants require less water and maintenance compared to exotic species, promoting ecological balance and resilience.
3.Organic Gardening Practices: I advocate for organic gardening practices such as composting, mulching, and integrated pest management (IPM). Compost bins within the garden recycle organic waste into nutrient-rich soil amendments, while mulch conserves soil moisture and suppresses weed growth naturally. IPM techniques prioritize biological controls and beneficial insects to manage pests without relying on synthetic chemicals.
4.Sustainable Materials: The garden's infrastructure, including pathways, seating areas, and signage, is constructed using sustainable materials such as recycled wood, eco-friendly plastics, and permeable paving stones. These materials minimize environmental impact and contribute to the garden's aesthetic appeal.

How do you envision visitors experiencing the olfactory garden? Can you describe a visitor's journey through the space?

As visitors enter the olfactory garden, they are greeted by a gentle breeze carrying fragrant hints of lavender and rosemary, setting the tone for a sensory adventure. The entrance features a welcome area with information kiosks and interactive displays introducing the garden's themes and key attractions.
Moving along the visitors cross over a wooden bridge that makes a very unique woody sound as one passes through it, Visitors encounter the first sensory zone, the "Herbal Haven." Here, aromatic herbs such as mint, thyme, and basil release invigorating scents, inviting visitors to touch and smell the foliage. Braille labels and tactile markers provide information about each herb's culinary uses and therapeutic properties, engaging visitors of all abilities.
Continuing their journey, visitors enter the "Floral Symphony" section, where a vibrant tapestry of blooming flowers delights the senses. Roses, jasmine, and lilies perfume the air with their distinct fragrances, creating a harmonious blend of floral aromas. Benches nestled among the flower beds offer quiet spots for contemplation and appreciation of nature's beauty.
Further along the path, visitors encounter the "Fruit and Spice Orchard," where citrus trees, spicy herbs, and exotic fruits tantalize the senses. Lemons, oranges, and cinnamon evoke memories of sunny orchards and spice markets, while interactive scent stations allow visitors to explore and identify different fruity and spicy aromas.
As one moves forward, they are come across the water element inspired by Diana Memorial Fountain at Hyde Park, London, UK, where one can enjoy the feeling of flowing water through their foot.
The journey culminates in the "Serenity Garden," a tranquil oasis designed for relaxation and reflection. Here, aromatic shrubs like sage and eucalyptus provide a calming atmosphere, enhanced by the soothing sounds of a small water feature. Visitors can unwind on benches or meditation platforms near an artificial waterfall, immersing themselves in the garden's peaceful ambiance.
Kids are designated with a play area away from the relaxation seating area.
Throughout their experience, visitors are encouraged to engage with the garden using all their senses, from touching textured plant leaves, smelling variety of scents and tasting edible plants to listening to rustling foliage, flowing water and bird songs. Interpretive signage, audio guides, and guided tours enrich the experience by providing educational insights into the plants, fragrances, and ecological significance of the garden.
By the end of their journey, visitors leave the olfactory garden with not just memories of delightful scents but also a deeper appreciation for nature's diversity, the importance of sensory experiences, and the interconnectedness of humans and the environment.

Second Prize Winners

Gabriela Kwasowska, Anna Krystkowicz & Marta Kozłow

Poland

Third-year architecture students at Białystok University of Technology, they met during their studies, bonding over their shared interests and passion for architecture. They decided to enter the 2023 Olfactory Garden Competition as a school project, seizing the opportunity to challenge themselves and showcase their ideas.

Can you describe your inspiration behind the design concept for the olfactory garden?

Our intention was to design the 'seed of the garden' only and then to invite designers and residents to jointly design its further expansions – further 'garden constellations', inspired by the night sky. But to begin with, we are focusing on a small section of it, the layout of which reflects the part of the constellation of the Ursa Minor.

We have also designed three smaller pavilions in the garden. They are inspired by the flower shape of the Lily Of The Valley (Convallaria majalis), the fruit of the Chinese lantern (Alkekengi officinarum = Physalis alkekengi) and the Bluebell flower (Hyacinthoides non-scripta). These are the plants that seem to shine in the darkness.

How did you approach the task of selecting plants and natural elements to create a diverse and engaging fragrance palette?

We wanted to create night garden so it was important for us to choose flowers and plants that bloom and smell at night. It was important that some of them were pollinated in the evening and at night by moths - nocturnal insects. We also focused on selecting plants that bloom in spring and summer, as we assumed that the location is inactive during the remaining parts of the year.

In what ways does your design aim to stimulate and engage visitor’s sense of smell on a deep emotional level?

All of the plants and flowers have similar, subdued, solid colors. It was important for the plants and flowers not to attract attention through their colors, but through the intensity of their blooming and fragrance. We also designed pavilions where visitors can fully focus on olfactory experiences and immerse themselves in the scent of flowers.

How did you ensure that your garden design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment? What considerations were taken into account?

Geographically, the garden is located in Wasilków, a town in northeastern Poland at the edge of the Knyszyn Primeval Forest. The site is inside one of the largest natural protected areas in Poland, the Knyszyn Forest Landscape Park. This is the USDA Plant Hardiness Zone 6A.

During the design process, we endeavored to adapt our garden to the existing terrain without disturbing the natural landscape. Therefore, our intention was to design the 'seed of the garden' only and then to invite designers and residents to jointly design its further expansions.

Accessibility and inclusivity are important aspects of the project. How does your design cater to visitors of all ages and abilities?

The paths in the garden have permeable surfaces created from natural aggregates. They are designed so as not to impede people with disabilities. The bright colors of the pathways and garden lighting at night encourage exploration and invite visitors to discover new scents, while also ensuring their safety.

Can you elaborate on the educational value that your garden design offers? How do you plan to inform visitors about the various plants and their associated fragrances?

The information panels are just plywood lanterns. Each panel is dedicated to one of the key plants that can be found in the garden, as well as a moth that pollinates the flower. The panels have laser-cut letters and moths. The panels are portable and can be hung in different configurations in each pergola. Interactive panels light up when you approach them.

Sustainability and maintenance are key factors in the long-term success of the garden. What sustainable practices have you incorporated into your design, and how do you plan to ensure the garden’s upkeep?

The vast majority of plants require daily watering, mainly near the ground. Watering of leaves and flowers should be avoided. Some varieties like moist or wet soil, others do not; therefore, we have separated such plant species.

The plants selected in the project like the sun. Individual species require fertilization once or twice a year, most often in autumn. They also do not like weeds, so regular weeding is necessary.

Some plants, namely white wolf and "One Night Queen", are to be planted in a winter greenhouse, the Bluebell flower pavillion. They require a minimum temperature of approx. 10-15 °C. But, these plants do not require pruning, weeding or watering.

How do you envision visitors experiencing the olfactory garden? Can you describe a visitors journey through the space?

An introvert meditates on the scents in the small Bluebell Flover Pavillion, choosing a time at midnight; then walks slowly along the edge of the lane and stops at the next meditation spot, contemplating each pavillion in this way.

An extrovert with friends dances around the circular lane. The smells help them to feel oneness with the universe. Sometimes they try to follow a woolly moth, intoxicated by the scent.

A child gazes in awe at the stars. Subtle fragrances let the children dream. Don't the stars have a smell?

Third Prize Winners

Yicheng Xu, Qiao Yong, Cai Yuxin & Abdukadir

China

Yicheng Xu, an architect with a passion for gardening, sees this competition as an opportunity to create his ideal garden and address real-life challenges through plant-inspired conceptual design. He's excited to participate.

Yong Qiao, 22, explores the relationship between the senses and architecture, focusing on sensory architecture. He has experience in soundscape design and a passion for calligraphy, fine brushwork, and natural aesthetics.

Yuxin Cai maintains a critical distance from current trends, consistently reflecting on the interplay between architecture, historical culture, and living environments, while continually progressing.

Abduka, 24, served in the army for two years before pursuing architecture, which he started studying in 2021. A junior this year, he specializes in architectural landscape design and enjoys fitness and art.

Can you describe your inspiration behind the design concept for the olfactory garden?

The core of our strategy lies in enveloping the entire community with bionic membrane structures, creating a protective barrier against pollutants. By leveraging ecological design principles, we have deliberately chosen circular planar forms to optimize the layout of crucial structures such as aromatic plant towers, distillation towers, and gas dissemination towers. This meticulous planning aims to achieve the most effective and efficient solutions for counteracting air pollution within the community.

How did you approach the task of selecting plants and natural elements to create a diverse and engaging fragrance palette?

We believe that plants and fragrances can positively impact people's physical and mental health. To support this idea, we have reviewed relevant literature to help us select suitable plants.

In what ways does your design aim to stimulate and engage visitors' sense of smell on a deep emotional level?

By leveraging ecological design principles, we have carefully selected circular planar forms after much deliberation, aiming to optimize the layout of crucial structures such as fragrant planting towers, distillation towers, and gas dissemination towers. On the other hand, the selected plants have been scientifically proven to possess healing effects on human psychology.

How did you ensure that your garden design seamlessly integrates with the surrounding environment? What considerations were taken into account?

The garden is designed in conjunction with the residential building as a whole, so that it is integrated into the community. The plan is optimized in the design, and each installation is placed in the most suitable area between the buildings.

Accessibility and inclusivity are important aspects of the project. How does your design cater to visitors of all ages and abilities?

Our project incorporates multiple entrances and exits located in various directions of the site, enabling a larger number of surrounding residents to access the site quickly and efficiently. These entrances also facilitate the holding of various public activities in the plazas within the site. Additionally, we have implemented subsidence treatments for certain plazas within the site, aiming to provide a richer spatial experience. To further enhance accessibility for elderly individuals and children in the surrounding area, we have also designed multiple barrier-free ramps.

Can you elaborate on the educational value that your garden design offers? How do you plan to inform visitors about the various plants and their associated fragrances?

Our design can inspire more people to use plant scents to heal the soul, and we will put signs next to each plant explaining its variety and effect.

Sustainability and maintenance are key factors in the long-term success of the garden. What sustainable practices have you incorporated into your design, and how do you plan to ensure the garden's upkeep?

The bionic membrane structure we adopted can filter ultraviolet rays under the condition of ensuring ventilation, and has the function of collecting rainwater and directly watering the plants in the garden, providing a constant growth environment for the plants.

How do you envision visitors experiencing the olfactory garden? Can you describe a visitor's journey through the space?

Imagine stepping into an olfactory garden, where each stride unveils a novel olfactory experience. Commencing in the floral zone, one is greeted by the sweet aroma of roses, lavender, and jasmine. This is followed by the refreshing scent of herbal plants such as mint and basil, succeeded by the vibrant fragrance emanating from the citrus grove.

Amidst the surrounding aroma of wooden essences like cedar and sandalwood, moments of tranquility are discovered. Along the way, seating areas invite one to pause and immerse oneself in the natural scents. Arriving at the heart of the garden, a serene fountain surrounded by water lilies and lotus flowers presents a peaceful conclusion to one's sensory journey.

Upon exiting the garden, one departs feeling rejuvenated and inspired by the transformative power of natural fragrances.

Special mention

Honorable mention

Dominika Sikora & Ariana Sawicka

Leonardo Monte & Guilherme Pinheiro e Silva

Yuying Chu & JiangYihan

Loréne LARA & Jade HUSER

Dominika Sikora & Ariana Sawicka

Poland

Dominika Sikora & Ariana Sawicka

Leonardo Monte & Guilherme Pinheiro e Silva

Brazil

Guilherme Pinheiro and Leonardo Costa are fifth-year architecture students at the Federal University of Paraná, located in Curitiba, Brazil. Both show a deep interest and enthusiasm for architecture and landscape design projects, which is reinforced by their dedication to explore sustainable design concepts and their impact on communities and the environment. With a special appreciation for Brazilian architecture, they constantly seek inspiration from local works and architectural movements to integrate into their design practices.

Yuying Chu & JiangYihan

China

Chu Yuying and Jiang Yihan, students from the Department of Architecture and Environmental Art at Xi'an Academy of Fine Arts, are thrilled to share their experience of participating in and winning an award in the Smell Garden Series Design Competition.

Loréne LARA & Jade HUSER

France

Two architecture students at Lyon School in France, Lorene Lara and Jade Huser, forged a strong friendship during their first year. Despite never having collaborated before, they seized the opportunity presented by this project.

Lorene Lara, 20, hailing from a small village in Drôme, arrived in Lyon in 2021 after an internship in an architecture agency sparked her curiosity. Over the past three years, she has developed an interest in urbanism, particularly in its connection to inhabitants. Inspired by critical regionalism, she aims to incorporate a socio-cultural approach into her architecture. During a study break, she spent four months volunteering in Tenerife, hoping to broaden her cultural understanding and professional horizons through further travels.

Jade Huser, 21, born in a small town in southern France, joined Lyon School the same year as her teammate, driven by her passion for architecture. With a focus on public space development, she directed her studies accordingly. Fascinated by the psychosociology of architecture, her final report focused on the well-being of children after the redevelopment of schoolyards, done in consultation with them.

Both intrigued by landscaping, Lorene and Jade, unable to explore it fully within their degree, decided to challenge themselves by participating in this contest. They naturally chose the site after several experiments with users. The concept of "La Maison de Répit" was central to their project, and they were thrilled that their work was recognized and appreciated by both the competition and the residents.

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