Part 3: Hard landscaping

7. Ergonomics

Black and white image of 3 wooden sunloungers side by side in a garden with hedging.

Pixabay / Licence

Ergonomics is the principle of designing to fit the people who will use the feature.

We hear a lot about ergonomics of the workplace, which usually means the setup of a workspace and computer to ensure the comfort of people sitting at a desk all day, but in fact ergonomics are also important in the design of structures in a landscape.

  • Are the steps a comfortable height?
  • Is the handrail at the right height?
  • Is the seat at the right height with the correct angle of back rest?
  • Is the slope a comfortable gradient?
Activity

Do an internet images search for ‘ergonomic garden design’. Take note of all the different types of features that can be made ergonomic from planting beds raised to wheelchair user’s ideal height, to form fitting furniture, to smooth walking surfaces without trip hazards.