Healing Gardens

The focal point at this end of the Chapel Garden is the Haddonstone Garden Temple. Straight back from the lawn is a reflecting pool. “Knock Out” roses and asters are among the perennials.

The Bon Secours St. Francis Medical Center’s was voted “America’s Most Beautiful Hospital for 2011” by Soliant.com visitors. Soliant Health, Atlanta, Ga., is a health care staffing provider and part of the Adecco Group. Soliant has conducted the competition for the past three years.

The hospital grounds were featured in the Feb. LASN, 2010 issue www.landscapearchitect.com/research/article/13003. The landscape architectural design was by Richmond, Va.-based Higgins & Gerstenmaier; the architect was Odell Associates and the landscape contractor was James River Nurseries. The link provides the full “team” information.

The hospital and the grounds were designed to incorporate natural light, running water and foliage to promote a sense of healing and reflection for patients and visitors as well as staff.

The retaining wall (left) is faced in brick and Arriscraft masonry units. The lawn is a blue fescue. Purple coneflowers and dwarf fountain grass are among the plantings.

Key features of the landscape design include:

• Pedestrian-friendly parking pods organized around a central boulevard, with wide sidewalks, street trees and decorative lighting.
• Water features link building spaces such as the front entry and the chapel.
• Contemplative gardens.
• Plant selection for year-round visual interest and color.

Higgins & Gerstenmaier worked directly for Bon Secours Richmond Health on the project. “From the parking lot configuration to the outdoor rooms and plant palette, our strategies focus on enhancing healing,” said Dave Gerstenmaier, senior principal and CEO of Higgins & Gerstenmaier.

For more about Soliant Health's 20 Most Beautiful Hospitals, visit https://blog.soliant.com/most-beautiful-hospitals/2011