Landscapes, Health, and Healing is a research-based design project that merges landscape architecture with pediatric healthcare, creating a therapeutic landscape designed to support the emotional and physical well-being of patients, families, and healthcare staff. By focusing on the stakeholders of the design, this project streamlines important decisions which focus on promoting healing through the landscape.

One of the central features is the accessible rainbow pathway, featuring two distinct nodes of circulation: an ADA-compliant ramp and a set of steps. This pathway, carefully designed for accessibility, encourages movement and engagement, providing both a calming and stimulating experience that can be enjoyed by people of all ages and abilities.

The design also includes several interactive play pods that contribute to the hospital’s healing environment. Butterfly Blossom, a whimsical space designed to mimic the delicate beauty of butterflies, features a unique shade and seating element which adds of wash of color as sunlight filters through. Honeybee Hive provides an interactive educational space where children can play on the honeycomb inspired elements. Caterpillar Corner offers a variety of physical mobility focused elements including a caterpillar tunnel and steppers.

This project includes intentionally crafted spaces that weave through pollinator gardens with sensory friendly plant material and soft aromatics, creating a relaxing space for all users. Extensive research on the therapeutic effect of plant material in healthcare environments indicates that over half of patients experience enhanced feelings of calm, contentment, and relaxation. These benefits are observed when patients engage with hospital gardens, whether through direct interaction or views from a window. Alongside, there are several seating nodes for healthcare workers to take lunch or work on completing patient charts and documentation - providing a calming space beyond the sterile, fluorescent-lit hospital rooms.