Finding Home in a Canadian Public Garden

Abstract

The experience of being “at home” is not a static entity with clear boundaries, but rather involves dynamic connections, including inside and outside and private and public. The essential characteristics or attributes of home include the act of dwelling and engaging within a space, a sense of belonging and empowerment, and a space of residence. Gardens place individuals within their own stories and bring them home: From reminding them of distant childhoods, to the selfless stewarding of public spaces, there is an intrinsic connection between people and their public gardens. Additionally, public gardens offer some re-creation of homelands—familiar sensory experiences link individuals to other times, which comfort them and ground them in this home, thereby fostering a sense of place. An investigation of the role played by volunteers in Canadian public gardens uncovers insights into the importance of place attachment, belonging, and home.