Magnolia Manor in Buena Vista, Georgia is a non-profit senior-living facility born from the Methodist Faith Tradition. Magnolia Manor strives to offer residents a quality lifestyle that provides for the social, spiritual, mental, and physical needs of older adults in South Georgia. The 70-bed facility offers rehabilitation, skilled nursing, and memory care services, and is certified for both Medicare and Medicaid. 

The mission of this project is to design and create a sensory garden for Magnolia Manor that enhances the well-being of its residents by providing an accessible, inclusive, and therapeutic outdoor space. 

We conducted a site inspection and analysis, presented three unique garden design concepts to the seniors, and collected verbal feedback on the designs. We noted suggestions for further refinement and enhancement of the proposed designs and used survey insights to ensure the final design meets the needs of both the Garden Club and the facility.  

The goal of the final masterplan is to ensure accessible design, provide opportunities for active and passive involvement, as well as engaging the senses through pleasing color palettes, aromatic plants, and a variety of textures throughout the site. All of these design objectives are intended to promote relaxation and overall well-being, enhancing the overall quality of life for those at the residence.