This hospital Healing Garden is a one-of-a-kind biophilic project, and a first for New Zealand’s healthcare sector.
Client
Health New Zealand and Well Foundation
Location
Auckland, New Zealand
Collaborators
Jasmax
Awards
International Biophilic Design Awards – Diamond
International Plantscape Awards – Platinum
Nature inside a hospital
Located in the indoor atrium of Tōtara Haumaru at North Shore Hospital, the Healing Garden flows across more than 110sqm - a first of its kind in New Zealand's healthcare sector. The greenery harnesses the proven benefits of nature to provide relief from the busy hospital setting, meeting stringent requirements for waterproofing, fire rating, and weight loading. Most recovery rooms look directly out to the garden.
A forest canopy, recreated
The Healing Garden authentically re-creates the forest canopy of Aotearoa indoors. A curving central walkway guides visitors through the atrium, with seating nestled amongst the greenery. Outside In developed the Forest Form® specifically for this project, creating authentically layered canopy structures incorporating more than 500 plants from over 15 species, including New Zealand natives. Jasmax developed the design concept in collaboration with Outside In, Haumi, and the Well Foundation.
Inside this fully accessible hospital garden, planting reaches over two metres tall. Preserved moss emulates the forest floor, and grow lights create the effect of sunlight filtering through the canopy above. International research shows views of nature can lead to shorter post-operative stays and reduced need for pain medication. This entirely unique project was funded by community donations, thanks to the efforts of the Well Foundation.
"With their specialist expertise in selecting the right plants to thrive in internal environments, and technical expertise in delivering the design concept to perfection, Outside In have brought the vision for this garden to life."
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