The Nest

Discover a new installation in the museum's garden – an inclusive, sensory-friendly structure nestled among the trees, designed for people with dementia and their carers. What to expect The Nest is an inclusive, sensory-friendly seating installation crafted from natural and recycled materials in use in the museum's Dame Sylvia Crowe Garden. This structure was designed to rethink how outdoor spaces can support people living with dementia. Inspired by the surrounding birdhouse display entitled Dwellings, Rehomed, which was created in collaboration with Computer Room and Flock Together, the concept of ‘nesting’ encapsulates notions of welcome and care. The vision behind The Nest extends beyond its physical form, aiming to increase the garden's accessibility through design by opening doors for future initiatives that invite and foster connection and wellbeing within this community group. The structure’s design has been informed by research, outreach and support provided by charities such as Dementia Adventure and Age UK. This project expands activities in the Dame Sylvia Crowe Garden relating to Growing Together, the museum's learning and research project exploring design and horticulture as catalysts for positive social change for the green transition.