Garden design - where to start?

[RainbowPanda]

I am not in the least bit creative.. I have a new build square box garden (6x5m ish) so small but a blank canvas really. Lived here 2.5 years and only got straight borders around each side of the lawn with some shrubs.

I don't even know where to start with design in terms of shape, patio, where to put a tree etc.

I do know I want some sensory elements as DS (toddler) is blind so want to interest him as he grows up. I am thinking a path with different textures under foot that leads him round the garden to different areas? But it's only small and don't know if it would even work.

Scented beds like lavender. Maybe a music area with metal and wooden things as he loves his music (example attached).

I may be able to get some charity funding for DS (particularly need to level patio for safety as some slabs have sunk so trip hazard).

But at the same time I don't want it to look like a playground, I still want it to have a natural feel about it. Maybe some raised beds where the lawn dips at the end.

So I kind of know what bits I'd like, but with no idea how to put them together. What do I focus on first?

There's only one way to find out! We've got a college like that near us too - it does a really good open day where among other things there are project plots which can be looked at, my guess is someone might jump at the chance of designing something for you.

Hello RainbowPanda,

I've sent a PM that should hopefully be worth having a look at

2 Sensory plants that are non-toxic are bunny grass and bunny clover, both of which have lovely feathery cotton tail seedheads that children love to touch.

I think we came up with a lovely garden between us. Rainbow Panda, please will you post a photo when it is completed

That's a great design but be careful with tiny strips of grass that are difficult to cut (like the area between the paving and the shed). You'll end up with perma-tuft.

My first thought on reading your OP was "how exciting!" - I'd have thought a college of garden design would leap at that!

Are there any sensory gardens you could visit? perhaps in local hospitals? Have you asked the RHS for advice?