Introduction: From Soil to Society
In the context of rapid urbanization in China, the demand for green spaces transcends ecological concerns, touching upon issues of equity and community well-being. Community gardens emerge as a compelling solution, fostering environmental sustainability and social cohesion. These modest spaces are redefining our understanding of inclusive and participatory urban design.
From soil to society: the role of community gardens in inclusive urbanism
In rapidly urbanizing countries like China, the demand for green space has become not only a matter of ecology, but also one of equity. As cities expand vertically and public land becomes limited, how can we design green infrastructure that fosters both environmental sustainability and social connection?
Community gardens offer a powerful answer. They are no longer just about growing vegetables—they are about growing relationships, shared identity, and urban well-being. These small, often overlooked spaces have the potential to reshape how we think about inclusive and participatory design in cities.
From Design Principles to Human Needs
Creating a successful community garden involves more than allocating space; it requires a deep understanding of human behavior and spatial interaction. Key design strategies include:
- Accessible Design: Raised beds and wide pathways accommodate elderly and wheelchair users.
- Flexible Layouts: Modular structures adapt to seasonal changes and community needs.
- Shared Facilities: Compost bins, tool sheds, and gathering areas encourage collaboration.
- Microclimate Considerations: Windbreaks, shade structures, and rainwater management cater to both plants and people.
These strategies reflect a shift from merely providing greenery to fostering active participation.
Figure 1: Gardening can be accessible to all with some adjustments (Gardening can be accessible to all with some adjustments | Newsroom | Oregon State University)
Community Co-Creation: Design Beyond Designers
Drawing inspiration from Sanoff’s participatory design model, successful community gardens often begin with community involvement through activities like walk-through surveys, co-creation workshops, and temporary planting trials. Early engagement fosters a strong sense of ownership and ensures designs align with local culture and practical needs.
In my undergraduate research, I studied a small community garden in a dense residential area of Shanghai. The design team involved residents in selecting crops, decorating boundaries, and choosing seating styles. One elderly resident remarked, “This is our second home,” highlighting the profound impact of inclusive design.
Gardens as “Social Infrastructure”
The value of community gardens extends beyond environmental benefits; they serve as “soft social infrastructure.” These spaces offer informal gathering points where residents reconnect—with each other and themselves. They gently remind us that cities are not just systems but “communities of care.”
As Lynda Schneekloth aptly stated, “Design should not be left to designers alone.” Community gardens embody this ethos, blurring the boundaries between design and daily life, evolving alongside the communities they serve.
Looking Ahead: Cultivating a Culture of Shared Green Spaces
As urban designers, we must ask: Can every neighborhood have a shared green space? Can edible landscapes be integrated into parks, schools, and rooftops? In the face of climate anxiety and social fragmentation, community gardens offer a gentle yet powerful intervention—rooted in the soil but cultivating a sense of belonging that extends far beyond plants.
Embracing community gardens in China and worldwide signifies a step toward a more inclusive and participatory urban future.
References
- Sanoff, H. (2000). Community Participation Methods in Design and Planning. Wiley.
- Glover, T. D. (2004). Social capital in the lived experiences of community gardeners. Leisure Sciences, 26(2), 143–162.
- Hou, J., Johnson, J. M., & Lawson, L. J. (2009). Greening Cities, Growing Communities: Learning from Seattle’s Urban Community Gardens. University of Washington Press.
- Marcus, C. C., & Sachs, N. A. (2013). Therapeutic Landscapes: An Evidence-Based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens. Wiley.
- Urban Design Group. (2023). Urban Wellbeing: The Role of Soft Infrastructure. Retrieved from https://www.udg.org.uk/
