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DISSERTATION REPORT
Submitted by
SHAHSINA SHAMSUDHEEN
In partial fulfillment for the award of the degree
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
DISSERTATION REPORT
Submitted by
SHAHSINA SHAMSUDHEEN
In partial fulfillment for the award of the degree
BACHELOR OF ARCHITECTURE
BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE
Guided by
Valued by
CANDIDATES DECLARATION
I hereby declare that this Report entitled “Design Consideration for Healing Gardens”
which has been submitted for partial fulfillment of the requirement for the award of the
degree of Bachelor of Architecture, in Vedvyasa College of Architecture, Karad,
Malappuram is an authentic record of my own work carried out during the period from
JUNE 2022 to NOVEMBER 2022, under supervision and guidance of Ar. Krishnapriya
The matter embodied in this dissertation has not been submitted by me for the award of any
other degree of this or any other institute.
Date:
Place: Karad
SHAHSINA SHAMSUDHEEN
VOASEBC032
This is to certify that the above statement made by the candidate is correct to the best of my
knowledge and belief.
External Examiner
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
Acknowledgement
I take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to all those who have shared their
knowledge and efforts to help me in completion of this dissertation.
I express my deepest gratitude to my teachers for their continuous guidance and support.
I would like to thank my guide Assistant Professor Ar. Krishnapriya for her patient guidance
and support in this endeavor, which helped me in giving useful insights into the subject
which were extremely valuable.
I would also like to extend special thanks to Ar. C.S Anish (Principal), Ar. Shereef T.P
( Head of the Department), Dissertation Coordinator and all members of Vedavyasa College
of Architecture, Karad, Malappuram, for their encouragement, guidance and support.
I am also thankful to my friends, juniors, seniors and family members who helped and
supported in the completion of the dissertation.
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
Abstract
Healing gardens are a type of garden that aims to promote health and well being to human
life and the adjacent environment where they can augment medical care and be a vital aid.
Healing gardens do not take the place of clinical procedures and exclusive therapy, but their
effects can enhance and hasten the healing process. Medical services lack this technology of
healing through healing gardens which are necessary for modern medical care. In order to
give patients the essential herbal basis they need in the form of healing garden, it is crucial to
fundamentally transform health-care facilities and exterior to incorporate healing garden and
landscaping features. Thus, the purpose of the paper is to create a healing space based on
designing consideration through data collection and case studies that will result in major
physical changes for patients, caretakers, housekeepers while simultaneously act as a rest
area for staffs and can also be progressed within each private residences.
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Undertaking.............................................................................................................................................i
Certificate...............................................................................................................................................ii
Acknowledgement................................................................................................................................ iii
Abstract................................................................................................................................................. iv
Table of Contents................................................................................................................................... v
List of figures........................................................................................................................................ vi
1. Introduction ...........................................................................................................................1
1.1 Introduction..................................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Goal of the healing garden ............................................................................................. 1
1.3 Need of Healing Garden..................................................................................................2
1.4 Aim.................................................................................................................................. 3
1.5 Objective..........................................................................................................................3
1.6 Scope and Limitation...................................................................................................... 3
1.7 Research Question...........................................................................................................3
1.8 Methodology....................................................................................................................4
2. Healing Gardens.................................................................................................................... 5
2.1 Concept of Healing Garden ............................................................................................5
2.2 History of Healing Gardens............................................................................................ 5
2.3 Classification of Healing Gardens.................................................................................. 6
2.3.1 Enabling Gardens ................................................................................................... 6
2.3.2 Meditative gardens.................................................................................................. 6
2.3.3 Rehabilitative Garden..............................................................................................7
2.3.4 Restorative Gardens................................................................................................ 8
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
4. Analysis................................................................................................................................. 24
4.1 Analysis of Panchatatva Healing Garden..................................................................... 24
4.2 Analysis of Healing Garden at Kernan Hospital.......................................................... 24
4.3 Analysis of Olson’s Family Garden..............................................................................26
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
5. Design Considerations.........................................................................................................28
5.1 Elements and Principles for Designing Healing Gardens............................................ 28
5.2 Designing considerations for Healing Gardens............................................................ 29
5.2.1 Site Selection......................................................................................................29
5.2.2 Site Planning...................................................................................................... 30
5.2.3 Layout.................................................................................................................30
5.2.4 Structures............................................................................................................31
5.2.5 Amenities............................................................................................................31
5.2.6 Planting and Composition..................................................................................32
5.2.7 Signage............................................................................................................... 33
5.2.8 Materials.............................................................................................................33
6. Conclusion............................................................................................................................ 35
References........................................................................................................................... 36
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
LIST OF FIGURES
CHAPTER 1: INTRODUCTION
1.1 Introduction
The lack of control and inadequate connectivity with the outside world in these environments,
according to studies on the subject, may cause people to experience bodily environment-
related stress. This is overcome by designing of healing garden in these environments.
A healing garden is an outdoor garden space that has been specifically designed to meet the
physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of the people using the garden as well as
their caregivers, family members and friends.
They combine nature, design and materials to create a calming and therapeutic environment.
Healing spaces act as a catalyst for helping people to move towards healing within their
living spaces. Restoring internal harmony is the process of healing. Reintegration of the
body's herbal capacity for restoration and renewal. This equilibrium is what constitutes health,
and its absence constitutes illness.
The power of healing gardens to enhance human lives is the main topic of this study. Both
the role that plants play in healing and the extent to which outdoor areas can be created as the
best healing environments to affect the human lives are researched.
The study focus on designing considerations to be given in healing gardens which aids in
reducing the negative effects on human beings.
i. The goal of healing spaces is to engage people in the process of healing and recovery.
ii. Eliminate environmental stresses such as noise, lack of privacy, poor air quality
iii. Encourage opportunities for social interaction
iv. Providing a platform in connecting to the nature by portraying an environment of leisure
and recreation
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
The world is rapidly urbanizing by which large number of people shift to urban areas
concentrated relatively small areas. More than half of the world’s population live in urban
areas in highly-dense cities. This transition has transformed the way of living of human in the
way they live, work and travel.
By 2050, the number will further increase by 20%, two-thirds of the population will live in
cities. City life has made people remain shut up inside homes-enclosed by walls, concrete
slabs, and roofs making it away from the natural surrounding and open environment.
People are already living more in the virtual world than experiencing reality and interacting
with the nature which are actually a gift to the human lives.
Large cities and large societies can lead to increased levels of stress, pollution, poverty, poor
nutrition, housing conditions and affect the overall physical health of human beings.
Major factors that have contributed to stress levels, and feelings of discomfort are the
advancement of technology, busy work schedules, a decrease in physical activities with the
main problem of diminishing human-nature relationships which are associated with the
healing nature of environment for humans.
Healing environments are physical atmosphere that support the process of recovery. The
creation and management of healing gardens in a city setting is extremely limited.
Healing gardens can provide active and passive contemplative areas for relaxation within
own private boundaries.
Architecture makes an approach to promote healing through garden by connecting with the
inner self to bring about a change in one’s health. This can also control the microclimate of
the area and can connect people to nature by providing paths and gardens.
This not only opens up new possibilities, but it also creates a structure in which human can
learn more about the significance and benefits of these gardens. They combine nature,
design and materials to create calming and healing environment.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
1.4 Aim
The research aims at analyzing the design considerations for healing gardens which can
support the physical health of human lives.
1.5 Objectives
◦ Implementing healing gardens in health care facilities can help to open ourselves up to a
wide range of possibilities
◦ Benefits of blending nature as an element of healing, as it allows us to recover more
quickly
◦ Changing the conventional methods of medical treatment and healing from hospitals to
own houses
◦ Healing gardens can be identified as a topic that has an impact on psychological aspects
of human life which are analyzed through surveys are absent on the research due to lack
of time.
◦ In this research paper, however, I will concentrate on the physical and design aspects In-
depth technical, construction, and farming level analysis are also absent.
How are Healing Gardens designed to affect the Well being of a person physically?
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
The research paper's primary goal is to study the design considerations of healing gardens in
improving one’s physical condition.
The paper provides definitions from various research scholars, as well as concepts cited in
various research papers, to provide a general understanding of the subject
BBACKGROUND STUDY
ANALYSIS AND
CONCLUSION
In general, a garden is portrayed as a heaven where humans can find a welcoming escape
from the outside world. All gardens have healing properties on some level. In other words, a
healing garden can restore the herbal balance in humans. Healing gardens are defined as a
broad collective term that encompasses a wide range of garden types aimed at promoting
health and well-being in human lifestyles and the surrounding environment. Due to the
effects on the psyche and health, the healing garden is especially intended for a variety of
medical facilities, sanatoriums, recovery spas, retirement homes to own private residences.
Though gardens for healing purposes have been around for a long time, there has been a
recent surge in interest in the natural environment and health. Gardens were used as healing
spaces in early Eastern, Greek, and Roman cultures.
season, it will become underdeveloped and susceptible to disease. Seasons of the year differ in terms
of temperature, climate, length of day, and rainfall. Plants experience these seasons in various ways.
Others continue to grow and generate seeds for many years, while some produce seeds and pass
away after a year or two. Including annuals in the garden gives users a seasonal continuity of things
to do.
Fragrances can not only make you smell good, but certain scents also have incredible healing
powers. Exposure to smells of certain herbs or spices can have more benefits.
1. Peppermint: According to research, inhaling peppermint can help lower the body's level of
the stress hormone cortisol. The oil can be sniffed to ease weariness as well.
2. Orange: According to research, the fragrance of oranges might help you relax under strain.
Your mood will be improved and your stress hormones will be reduced by the scent.
3. Rosemary: Inhaling rosemary can increase your mental work performance in terms of
speed and accuracy. You may get cognitive stimulation and a sense of renewal after smelling
rosemary's aroma.
4. Lavender: Lavender can promote relaxation and ease pre-menstrual symptoms. The scent
of lavender can also help decrease anxiety and insomnia
5. Cinnamon: The scent of cinnamon might increase your alertness. According to research,
inhaling the aroma of cinnamon oil can improve your concentration and reduce nervousness.
In order to reconnect people with the environment, Healing Gardens provide a solution that
tries to include gardens into health-care systems. Gardens provide psychological, social,
physical, emotional, and spiritual benefits to humans. A large part of this is because of the
positive reactions humans have to nature, so it is important for healing gardens to have lots of
green vegetation, flowers, and water elements.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
According to an Article “Nature that nurtures” there are several factors given which shows
what makes a Garden healing
◦ Keep it green
Lush, layered landscapes with shade trees, flowers and shrubs at various heights should take
up roughly 70 percent of the space; concrete walkways and plazas about 30 percent.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
◦ Keep it real
Abstract sculptures do not soothe people who are sick or worried.
◦ Keep it interesting
Mature trees that draw birds and chairs that can be moved to facilitate private conversation
foster greater interaction.
Roger Ulrich, a leading researcher in healing gardens, summarizes it thus: "We have a kind
of biologically prepared disposition to respond favorably to nature because we evolved in
nature. Nature was good to us, and we tend to respond positively to environments that were
favorable to us."
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
Reduced Pain
Lower infection
Improved Satisfaction
Fig 2.14 Roger Ulrich’s concept of Healing Garden
2. RESTING SPACES
◦ The garden should be designed to provide a space for people to connect with nature.
◦ The garden should be filled with plants and trees that will provide color, texture and
scent. This can range from delicate flowers to evergreens and trees.
◦ Consideration should also be given to the type of materials used in the garden – natural
materials such as cobblestones, pebbles, and wood are more calming than man-made
materials.
4. LIGHTING
◦ Lighting should be incorporated into the design to make it usable both day and night.
Soft, low-level lighting can make the garden feel comfortable and inviting, while also
providing safety and security.
◦ Lighting can also play a role in creating an atmosphere of calm and relaxation. Natural
light is preferred to artificial light, so consider placing benches and tables in areas of the
garden where natural light will be plentiful.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
3.1.1 Structure
A Panchatatva park based on therapeutic concept at Indira Park in Hyderabad is an outdoor
garden that has been specially designed to suit people’s physical, psychological, social, and
spiritual needs. The Panchatatva Park has cross-walks, an endless footpath, yoga shelters, an
open gym and herbal plants, and a wide variety of age facilities. Developed in an area of one
acre, the Panchatatva garden has features like Panchatatva acupressure concept walk, infinity
walk, criss- cross walking, navagraha vanam, raasi vanam, herbal garden and water cascades.
Panchatatva garden with walkway is developed on five elements of the nature (Panchabhutas)
— earth, water, fire, air and sky.
Further to reducing headaches, digestive problems, thyroid problems, obesity, and
constipation, it improves hand-eye coordination and balance and helps those who are
overweight or constipated. It also controls the blood flow and helps in the management of
diabetes. Panchatatva parks will help encourage healthy habits among citizens providing both
relaxation and good health for walkers. The 8-shaped walking track will have around 40
varieties of herbal and medicinal plants.
3.1.2 Elements
1. EARTH
2. WATER
3. FIRE
• The illuminating, liberating energy of the sun, to replenish your soul unobstructed views,
plenty of ventilation and natural light entry, more room for physical comfort and mental
peace enable you to experience
4. AIR
5. SKY
• Experience a whole new level of well-being, by making the sky your only limit with
striking nature surrounding you
• Trees and plants are the key factors to strike a balance in the Eco-system.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
3.2.1 Structure
Kernan Hospital’s Healing Garden is a hospital garden located in Baltimore city, Maryland
in the United States of America. It was designed as a therapeutic and rehabilitative tool for
teaching patients to maneuver on different types of terrain. Every element of Kernan's
Healing Therapeutic Garden, from flowerbed heights to plant colors and smells to pathway
angles and materials, was created to promote patients' healing.
The healing garden is made up of many different elements, such as surfaces and textures,
colors and scents, sounds and lines to accommodate different senses and abilities to return
back to their beautiful surroundings.
Patients can enjoy the beauty of the area while practising the skills they will need when they
leave the hospital. This prepares them for safe return to their home and community. The
garden was made possible by the local staff and community volunteers and associations.
Features of the Healing Garden include benches, water with fish, a sensory garden, a
medicinal herb garden, and secluded activity areas for social interaction and communication.
Every aspect of Kernan's Healing Therapeutic Garden was designed to aid patients' recovery,
from flowerbed heights to plant colors and scents to pathway angles and materials.
3.2.2 Elements
1. Backyard
Creating a backyard like this necessitated adhering to strict format guidelines. There is built-
in rehabilitation equipment to help people get back to their life. As a response, the garden
includes elements like grass, paves, cement, ramps, steps, and stone walks that are
recognizable to them. The area, like any healing garden, is filled with flowers chosen for
their color, texture, and fragrance. These flowers were also chosen to attract butterflies for
the butterfly garden. Patients can be at ease as well as enjoy visual pleasure.
2. Natural Elements
The design also includes a bridge and a lily pond. The garden is filled with flowers picked
for their colour, texture, and aroma. This enhances the garden's attractiveness and offers a
soothing experience with the presence of a natural element. Additionally, these plants were
chosen to draw butterflies to the butterfly garden. Both patients' comfort and visual
enjoyment are possible.
3. Universal Access
Wheelchair-height garden beds on two levels allow all patients to appreciate the plantings
and work with adapted gardening equipment, providing an educational experience for those
who are wheelchair-bound. This instills in the patients a sense of being treated fairly and
without partiality.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
3.3.1 Structure
Olson’s Family garden at St. Louis Children’s Hospital have a unique setting to enjoy time
with nature, a nature walk. The Olson Family garden is provided through the generosity of
donors to the St. Louis Hospital Foundation
The 8000 square foot garden has an interactive rooftop oasis designed expressly for children
and families who want a place for privacy, healing and solace.
The combination of non-public spaces, lush planting, and the sound of moving water creates
a sense of refuge, which aids in the healing process. The lawn provides a multipurpose open
space as well as an inexperienced focal point for the garden. The plan also makes use of
display screen plantings to create a contemplative area off to one side of the garden, where
children and parents can find solitude or enjoy private time as a family.
Plants with interesting characteristics and growth habits, colors, smells, and textures are used
to pique children's interest and provide a year-round.
The Olson Family Garden has received recognition on numerous occasions in national
professional publications that inform readers about healing gardens, the advantages of garden
landscapes in medical facilities, horticulture therapy, and the best use of garden space, in
addition to in gardening publications.
Each and every nook has been thoughtfully designed with something to discover, resulting in
experiences that captivate visitors by appealing to all of their senses. A lovely outdoor
environment is provided for patients, their families, and visitors as a place to confront illness
and gain restored strength.
2. A shallow, gurgling flow flows through the center of the garden, culminating in a
waterfall drop into a pool. Aside from the noise value, the stream machine has the added
attractions of live fish and an adventurous stepping stone course over the pool at the base
of the waterfall.
3. A smooth, flat floor free of tripping hazards was an essential component of the design's
infrastructure for the garden's visitors who would require wheelchairs, crutches, or other
transportation aids to navigate its paths.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
5. Visitors ride the primary elements of nature: wind, water, earth, and sun on a winding,
cushioned rubber walkway made of vibrant recycled tyres.
CHAPTER 4: ANALYSIS
◦ Developed in an area of one acre, the Panchatatva garden has features like Panchatatva
acupressure concept walk, infinity walk and water cascades.
◦ The Panchatatva walk is a circular track that can be walked over using eight components
to walk over this track. The components include 20mm stone, 10mm stone, 6mm chips,
river stone, rough sand, tree bark, black soil (Tank silt) and water.
◦ The walking is done from a very painful surface to a smooth and relaxing component,
which improves blood circulation in the body and cures a variety of ailments.
◦ It also benefits elderly people who have joint pain in the knee and are unable to walk
long distances.
◦ The inner circle is divided into nine parts, and the Navagra plants and various herbal
plants are planted in the boxes, which make people feel that they are performing
parikramas around Navagrahas. In addition, plant species are rooted along the pathway
connected to zodiac signs and nakshatras.
◦ Encourages the use of all motor skills, including walking, reaching, bending, and
planting seeds and cuttings.
◦ Skimma, Black Eyed Susan, Leyland Cypress, Arrow Wood, and other plants are
commonly used. These plants have brightly colored flowers that attract birds and
butterflies and can also stimulate the senses. They also have medicinal properties.
◦ Plants such as Big Blue Liriope, Climbing Roses, and sedum surround an intimate
gathering area. These flowering plants have blue and red flowers that make you feel
happy and energetic.
◦ The butterfly garden is the focal point of the therapeutic garden with a beech tree at the
centre serves as the main attraction. They have provided wooden trellises on both sides
with vibrant clematis plants that attract butterflies to the garden.
◦ Butterfly gardens help to increase population numbers, and by carefully selecting host
plants and restoring habitats, a diverse assemblage of butterflies can be maintained.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
◦ People sitting near the pathway benefit from the beech tree's filtering of the sun's rays
and wind. They have set up a meditation center for the people so that they can be at
peace and spend time alone and in private.
◦ Visitors and patients can stop by and smell the roses in the rose garden. Scent is a
powerful stimulant that can help us relax and connect more deeply with nature. Warm
colors, such as red, can help to lift our spirits if we are feeling down.
◦ A bird garden is provided to mimic natural sounds such as birds chirping and flapping
their wings. As they are in nature's elements, this can provide people with a sense of
relief and attracts butterflies.
Outdoor spaces, especially those within health care facilities, serve people who are
vulnerable in some way. The physical and emotional safety and security of users must be
ensured in all aspects of the outdoor space.
◦ Accessibility
It is critical to ensure that all people, regardless of age or ability, can use the equipment
safely and comfortably.
The ultimate goal is to foster an environment in which people feel cared for and nurtured.
People tend to stay in a garden longer and benefit more from the experience when they are
physically and emotionally at ease. The design should include places to walk and sit that are
both safe and comfortable, as well as opportunities for social interaction.
◦ Positive Energy
Elements in the garden should, to the greatest extent possible, distract users from stress. The
garden's purpose should be to provide a place of natural beauty where users can get away
from interior environments that may be alien, stressful, threatening, or intimidating.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
All therapeutic gardens must be properly maintained in order to serve as safe, useful, and
enjoyable spaces for their intended users. Plants that are not properly maintained may also
affect users' moods and create a negative experience with the garden.
Garden design should be as environmentally sustainable as possible by incorporating
recycled materials, utilizing green infrastructure for storm water management, and selecting
low maintenance plants.
5.2.1.1 Accessibility
To avoid making elderly users walk long distances, vehicular drop-off access should be as
close to the site as possible.
In the case of rooftop gardens, Universal Design elements such as lifts are recommended to
ensure accessibility for all users.
5.2.1.2 Vicinity
To ensure that users have easy access, the site should be located near amenities such as
toilets, wash areas, or drinking fountains.
5.2.1.3 Noise
To minimize disturbance to users, it is recommended that the site be located away from roads
and amenities such as basketball courts and playgrounds.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
5.2.1.4 Shade
Adequate shade is recommended on the site to provide users with sun protection.
5.2.1.5 Good ventilation
The location should have adequate airflow and be away from the exhaust flow of building air
vents
5.2.3 Layout
5.2.3.1 Simple Layout
The circulation path should be easily discernible and visible from the entrance. The general
circulation path should be a simple looped pattern or a figure-of-8 pattern with no dead ends.
5.2.3.2 Zoning
Active zone – includes horticultural therapy and exercise equipment as well as space for
group activities.
Passive zone – includes areas for strolling and seating.
5.2.3.3 Boundaries
Establish a boundary with shrubs to soften the sight of fences or walls to create a secure
space without the sense of being enclosed.
5.2.3.4 Visibility
Caregivers should have a clear view of all areas of the garden from all vantage points.
There should be no blind spots in the garden that could keep users from being seen by their
caregivers.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
5.2.5 Amenities
5.2.5.1 Garden Entrance
The entrance to the garden should be distinct in order for users to easily identify the start and
end point.
5.2.5.2 Secondary access
i. Provide a secondary entry point for maintenance personnel to enter or users to exit in the
event of an emergency
ii. Secondary entry should be placed inconspicuously or designed to be less visible.
5.2.5.3 Signage
Install signage that is both informative and interactive.
5.2.5.4 Sculptures
Install garden features or landmarks. They can serve as a focal point near the entrance.
5.2.5.5 Storage area
Create a storage area for tools and materials used in horticultural activities.
5.2.5.6 Watering point
Provide a water source to aid horticultural activities.
5.2.5.7 Planter
Make raised planters of varying heights available for users to interact with plants. They can
be used for horticultural therapy or for general viewing convenience.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
5.2.5.8 Paving
i. A minimum width of 1.2m is required for wheelchair access
ii. Choose non slippery material to prevent slipping in wet conditions
iii. Glare-free, light color materials
iv. Avoid gaps between paving stones
v. Provide edging on either side to aid in way finding and defining the path's edge
5.2.5.9 Seating
i. Armrests with a minimum width of 0.1m should be provided to allow for movement while
sitting or standing.
ii. Provide a variety of seating options in spaces that meet a variety of needs, ranging from
benches for small groups of people in semiprivate spaces to a mix of seating options in
public settings.
iii. Provide appropriate seating in gathering spaces to meet the needs of target users.
iv. Place seating at right angles, opposite each other, and close together to encourage social
interaction.
v. Provide color contrast between the seating and the hard surface setback.
vi. Make space for a wheelchair next to the seats so that both wheelchair users and non
wheelchair users can congregate
5.2.5.10 Hand Rails
i. Intermittent hand rails should be provided along the pathway to assist users and assist
them in balancing themselves while moving through the gardens.
ii. Provide hand rails at various heights if possible
i. Color
Warm colors like red, yellow, and orange stimulate the mind and excite the senses, whereas
cool colors like blue and purple are relaxing.
ii. Texture
Plants with unusual leaf textures can be used to surprise and fascinate visitors with their
sense of touch. All visitors, including those in wheelchairs, should be able to reach these
plants.
iii. Sense of smell
By engaging visitors' sense of smell, the scent of plants can evoke memories.
iv. Auditory
A gurgling water feature or the gentle rustling of leaves from grasses and trees can create a
serene and peaceful environment.
v. Plant-attracting flora and fauna
Visitors should be able to observe and appreciate wildlife such as butterflies and birds.
vi. Edibles
Cooking plants, such as herbs and spices, fruits and vegetables, can also engage users
through a sense of familiarity and the associated comfort that food provides.
vii. Local cultural memory
Plants encountered as a child or in daily life can evoke memories and a sense of nostalgia in
visitors. These could include plants with cultural significance, edible plants, or plants found
on the side of the road.
5.2.7 Signage
A good directional marker can help to inform, direct, and identify a space. It guides and
informs users when they have arrived at their destination.
5.2.8 Materials
5.2.8.1 Hardscapes
The hard components of a landscape design are called a "hard landscape." They are made up
of things like stones, rocks, or masonry. They are essentially necessary to provide a finished
appearance and a sense of spaciousness.
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
i. Decks or patios
Decks are a great addition to a backyard and divide the space into two clearly defined
sections, whether they are paved with stone or wood.
ii. Structures
Sheds, pergolas, and gazebos. All of these hardscape components are wonderful additions to
any landscape. Even the growth of vines or other climbing plants can be supported by them.
iii. Pathways
Different path surface options, from pebbles, bricks, or pavers to stone or even terrazzo.
iv. Fences
Fencing can utilize solid walls, picket fences, or even timber to provide security and privacy.
5.2.8.2 Softscapes
The Softscape is the living part of your landscape structure. The plants, the lawns, the trees
and the shrubs make up the components of Soft Landscape
i. Trees
The most permanent softscape element are trees and are a great feature in any backyard
providing shade.
ii. Shrubs and ground cover
Various types of ground cover can be used, including shrubs which can also add a lovely
lower visual element.
iii. Flower beds or gardens
These can be planted directly into the soil. Planter boxes are a great way to combine the soft
and hard elements. Using flower beds is also a beautiful way to bring some colour into the
space and can create some variety through the year.
iv. Mulch
This can be used for low-maintenance or unused areas of the backyard. Mulch is great
because it helps prevent weed growth and helps to hold moisture in the soil.
v. Screens
Privacy doesn’t just have to come from physical fences. There are some unique ways to use
softscape to create screens or barriers, for example, tall hedges or bamboo
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Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
CHAPTER 5: CONCLUSION
5.1 CONCLUSION
Providing proper design constraints and facilities can enhance the functioning of healing
gardens with the aim of recover and rejuvenate more quickly
Understanding the effects of greenery and related therapies on people's mental and physical
health is critical. A healing environment has a nurturing and therapeutic environment.
Studies show that well-designed healing environments can accelerate recovery, shorten
hospital stays, lessen pain and promote health and well-being. Physical condition has
provided cognitive, physical, and spiritual support through visual contact with the home,
comforting distractions, comfortable furniture, and space that supports the social
relationships.
The use of Healing gardens is no longer restricted to hospitals and health-care organizations.
It may be constructed in a number of locations so that individuals who are not confined to a
health facility or health-care institution can benefit from their therapeutic powers.
Architecture can play a major role in creating such spaces which can innumerate in the
physical well being of persons. Colors, Light, Pathways, Water, Plants, Views and Vistas
play a significant role in the design of Healing Garden.
36
Design Consideration for Healing Gardens
REFERENCES
https://www.re-thinkingthefuture.com/designing-for-typologies/a8342-the-concept-of-
healing-spaces/
https://www.thehealthsite.com/photo-gallery/body-mind-soul-natural-scents-that-have-
immense-healing-power-t0717-505245/amp/
https://www.ijraset.com/research-paper/elements-of-healing-spaces-in-hospital
Article Nature that nurtures
https://www.greenroofs.com/projects/olson-family-garden-st-louis-childrens-hospital
https://mcgrathconstruction.com/project/slch-olson-family-garden/
www.archdaily.com/972112/healing-gardens-nature-as-therapy-in-hospitals
Healing in the Hospital Starts With the Architect | Discover Magazine
Interview with Clare Cooper Marcus on the Healing Power of Nature – THE DIRT (asla.org)
www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/272782#benefits