As the demand for urban greening increases in Melbourne, it is becoming increasingly important that data around these spaces is transparently available to the public. Data shows that yes, parks improve mental well-being and reduce energy consumption, but what safety and health risks do they pose? What are the lesser-known consequences of man-made urban parks that seem insignificant, but pose large financial costs over time?

Using data journalism and olfactory design, Sensory Garden Lab invites you to create a custom fragrance based on your perceptions of green spaces—juxtaposed against a base formula using current and historical crime and health data. Experience an installation where participants engage with City of Melbourne park data, mapped on to natural fragrances.

Participatory forms of engaging with data-driven narratives in a multi-sensory manner have been well-researched in terms of their memorability and pedagogic functions. The aim of Sensory Garden Lab is to introduce this novel method of interaction to the general public.

Designed and conceptualised by RMIT University students Stephanie Ochona, Size Liu, Jiechen Zhao and Yuanjun Kang, this exhibition builds on a university designing with data elective led by industry fellow and PHD candidate Regine Abos.

This event is part of Melbourne Design Week 2022, an initiative of the Victorian Government in collaboration with the NGV.