I don't think a labyrinth is actually "Zen", but it would be a really cool addition to any garden area. I was checking out this website, http://www.labyrinthcompany.com They offer stencils for DIYers, or they can do it. You can make them outside with bricks, or stencil on a floor. Also, do a search on "google images" too, makes me want to have an area of my own!

Talk to the staff at your local nursery about what type of plants do best in your area. My in-laws garden was about that size, and all I can tell you is to leave plenty of room between the rows so you can move about easily.

Do they have to be paint buckets? I would think they would not be good for gardening? Maybe others will know more about that. But in the U.S. you can get 5 gallon buckets from some local businesses like bakeries, food store chains, places like those that regularly use items they get in the buckets. For instance a bakery usually gets stuff in 5 gallon buckets and often has to throw them into a dumpster as they can only save so many. Some businesses now sell them for a small fee, maybe 1 dollar U.S. each and some just give them away. I think the cost of shipping them to India would be more than the cost of buying them. You could try setting up a fund on Kiva.org and possibly get enough donations to purchase food grade buckets instead of using ones from paint. Good luck with this project and please update us as to your progress.

What is your climate? And any activities you want for each terrace? Dining? Kids' play space? A water feature of some sort would be lovely. Could add some fake lawn (putting green even!) for part. This product has come a long way!