How has the area outside our home changed over time? - Presentation

The transformation of outdoor spaces adjacent to our homes, particularly gardens, over time is a fascinating aspect of domestic history. Initially, there was a stark contrast between the outdoor spaces of the rich and the poor. The less affluent had minimal space, often just enough to discard dirty water and waste, with no intention of using it for leisure or aesthetics. This led to the term 'yard', particularly 'backyard', which originated in the Victorian era, describing the limited area outside the homes of the poor. However, as time progressed, more resourceful Victorians began to cultivate vegetable gardens and allotments, which were plots of land provided by local authorities for growing vegetables, especially when space at home was insufficient.

After the Second World War, the concept of gardens underwent another significant change. With more people owning homes with outdoor spaces and the constraints of rationing, gardens were transformed into vegetable plots to supplement food supplies. The allotment system expanded, allowing those without their own garden the opportunity to cultivate produce. In contemporary times, gardens have evolved further to become extensions of the living space, designed for both indoor and outdoor activities, reflecting modern lifestyle needs. Today, we are also encouraged to envision the future of these outdoor spaces, considering how they might adapt to upcoming trends and technologies.