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#RefugeeChallenge2016: The Garden

Nouha Hansen’s entry to the What Design Can Do, UNHCR and IKEA Foundation Refugee Challenge 2016.

The Garden is a model for green local meeting spaces in refugee camps that can be integrated in the different camp areas.

Refugee camps are often vast and monotonous, characterized by very temporary materials, a neutral colour palette and little offers in terms of social meeting spaces and well-being. Our surroundings have a great effect on our perception of experiences, state of mind, life style and life quality – and especially so when we are already vulnerable. Aesthetics are not a plus; easthetics are an essential part of recovery, of resilience, and of believing that despite the great traumas, life is still worth living and surviving is still worth fighting for.

As a green oasis, The Garden is a meeting space among beautiful plants created and looked after by the residents of the camp. It adds a new aesthetic, shared and active element to the fabric of the camp breaking its repetitiveness. Here neighbours get together around caring for the garden’s plants and growing planters to spread around the local area or simply enjoying an afternoon tea while overseeing the children playing.

The Garden with its elements of nature and timber structure creates a sense of stability and quality, and the experience of plants growing reminds us of normal life. Engaging in community activities to beautify our surroundings also encourages solidarity and trust in the community and improves life quality. These elements are therapeutic, help relaxing and are important for emotional recovery and moving towards a brighter future.