ADA | The Corner Orchard

ADA and the Universal Garden

In 1990 when the House passed the American Disabilities Act, our country set a precedent in inclusivity that would change the design world forever. Universal design emerged from the private and public recognition of how architecture often fails to welcome our variety of bodies and ways in which the ADA demanded improvement in access.

With the green space as a focus, Universal Gardens address the need for access that our diverse communities demand. Walkways are firm for ambulatory and non ambulatory movement, and gardens are designed for children as well as adults.

The Corner Orchard is a demonstration space for what we know about Universal design. We want to keep making it better by listening to our neighborhood and modifying our space to fit the range of abilities that we represent.

Check out the links below to learn more about Universal Gardens and Universal design principles in general:

https://www.asla.org/universalgardens.aspx

https://adata.org/universal-garden

https://universaldesign.ie/about-universal-design/history-of-universal-design

An Open Invitation

We want you to stop by. That's why we are committed to a green space that all of our neighbors can enjoy. Below are some of the ways we are utilizing Universal Design principles at The Corner Orchard.

Hard Pathways

Walking on sinking and uneven pathways in common in growing spaces. The corner will use packed and hard surfacing for its public paths to allow assisted walkers to navigate more easily.

Slopes over Steps

By using low ramps throughout any subtle landscape changes in the garden, the most people will have easier movement, including small children, people with strollers or workers moving equipment.

Sensory Garden

Not only do the pungent smells of herbs and flowers attract beneficial insects and deter pests, but they also fascinate all ages and support memory and wayfinding for adults with dementia.

Early Childhood

Our open lawn welcomes parents and small children to play, picnic and eventually watch movies at our farm. The garden is ringed with hardy plants that can withstand small hands, and safe growing things that tiny foragers can sample without harm to the plants or people.

Restrooms

ADA accessible restrooms will be available on site so that any person may explore or work in the garden with dignity.

Tree Canopy and covered spaces

Our site plan along with the generous tree donation from Texas Trees Foundation means that our neighbors who are sensitive to our intense Texas sun may enjoy the garden longer during sunny days.

Turn-Arounds

Ever been caught in a tight turn in a low access spot? Wide turn-arounds benefit more than walkers and wheelchairs. People with strollers or walking impediments also benefit from wide round-abouts and turns in the garden.

Wheelchair/ Walker Accessible raised beds

Many raised beds while helpful at arm level, ask the the cultivator sit sideways to enjoy the garden. By building raised beds with adequate space for the knees, legs and toes of a seated person, they can be worked longer and more comfortably.

Benches

Having a quiet seat in the garden is always a welcome interlude to an outdoor stroll. Our frequent seating not only allows space for rest, but encourages contemplation and mindfulness in an active greenspace.