Exploring Community Spaces: A Day of Inspiration and Connection
Last week, we had the pleasure of being invited to join Tila, coordinator Bridge Street Community Garden and 3 of their dedicated volunteers with Usha from Iffley Fields to lead a journey exploring some different garden spaces in East oxford. Annie (director of The Nature Effect) was asked to give some insight into the creation of these spaces, after which Becca was able to share the challenges of the developing gardens around the Berin Centre. It was a day filled with insightful conversations, beautiful gardens, and a deep dive into the ways these spaces serve their communities.
Exploring the Essence of Community Space
Our day began with a visit to Restore Café, a charming space where the garden greeted us as we arrived. As we sipped coffee, we took time to reflect on how thoughtful design can transform a place. The pathways, artwork, and seating areas all contributed to a welcoming environment, making us feel comfortable and connected to nature from the moment we stepped in.
Next, we journeyed to Barracks Lane Community Garden. On the way there, we walked through a beautiful churchyard, managed by volunteers where we talked about how urban spaces can support wildlife and people, and listened to birdsong. At Barracks Lane Garden, Annie shared the story of how it all started and gave us a tour. We discussed how different spaces are used and the inspiration behind such a well-designed community area.
Afterward, we visited Kate’s Place, a beautiful forest school area in the park inspired by the elements: fire, water, air, and earth. We talked about how the various spaces are used and how hedges are cleverly designed to shape the way people interact with the outdoors.
Our lunch stop took us to Flo’s, a popular community hub, where we enjoyed our packed lunches and a coffee. Annie shared the story of how it all started and gave us a tour. We discussed how different spaces are used and the inspiration behind such a well-designed community area.
In the afternoon, we made our way to The Berin Centre in Berinsfield. Becca, gave us a tour of the potential growing spaces, and we talked about different ways the space can serve the community, from vision and design to building, use, and stewardship.
A Day of Reflection
As the day came to a close, we reflected on all we had seen and experienced. Everyone who attended came away filled with ideas and inspiration. It was amazing to revisit how different spaces can serve such varied purposes—from growing food to providing a safe space for people to come together. It was a powerful reminder of the potential each community space holds.
One volunteer shared, “What an enjoyable day! It was really interesting to see the different green spaces and how they’re run in Oxford. I hope we can come together and share the lessons of the day and how we can implement them moving forward.”
A volunteer beautifully referred to the gardens as “community nests” which feels like it really encapsulates the essence of what these spaces offer—safety, warmth, and connection.
Feeling Inspired
Tila said “I found the day inspiring. It was wonderful to visit so many spaces all at once and listen to Annie’s fantastic anecdotes. I’m feeling inspired”
Tila is working with CAG Oxfordshire and Oxfordshire County Council to support and mentor Berinfield and other community garden projects. Annie, working with the community, founded Barrackslane Garden, Flo’s and Kate’s Place aka the NaturEscape Florence Park.
With big thanks to Tila and CAG!
