1915 NYC Roof Garden for Visually Impaired Visitors

This photograph captures an innovative roof garden specifically designed for blind individuals, taken by the Bain News Service around 1915. Located in New York City, this unique space aimed to provide a sensory-rich environment where individuals could experience plants and flowers through touch and smell. During the early 20th century, there was growing awareness about the importance of inclusivity in urban design, and projects like this one laid the groundwork for accessibility initiatives that would follow.

The roof garden featured a variety of plant life, chosen for their textures and fragrances to engage the senses of those who could not see. The layout demonstrated a thoughtful approach to creating a space where individuals could connect with nature, regardless of visual impairment. As cities expanded during this period, allowing access to green spaces became increasingly vital for improving quality of life, particularly for marginalized groups. This photograph serves as a visual testament to those early efforts in urban innovation and social responsibility.