Hierarchical access to the edible landscape: the Akbarieh Garden in Iran

Abstract

The Akbarieh Garden in Iran accommodates both pleasure and edible landscapes. In this study, visitor accessibility of the fruit trees of this garden was assessed using continuous and stop-motion walking modes. Results indicated that in the continuous walking mode, focus rested more on recognising the macro elements of the garden along the walkways; therefore, the edible landscape was not adequately considered. In the stop-motion mode, by stopping in successive landscape sequences, the edible landscape could be accessed. However, access to the edible landscape in Akbarieh Garden was limited by several factors. While the perimeter wall limited accessibility, spatial organisation of the garden along two walkways channelled visitors towards the pleasure landscape. In addition, an impenetrable green wall (boxwood) also limited access to the agricultural landscape. Thus, obstacles, longer walks, and the location of the edible landscape in the garden decreased the accessibility of fruit trees in this semi-public urban space.