Introduction:

Memorial Herman –HBU Wellness center is a two level fitness center on the Memorial Herman west campus. The hospital was interested in creating a spiritual and healing courtyard that promotes wellness concept of the project.

Garden is designed as an extension of the Cafe, Juice Bar, Natatorium and Therapy/ Workout rooms. A dining terrace, vine covered shade arbor, and water feature afford Wellness Center members and employees a relaxing atmosphere for outdoor dining, contemplation and communication. An Indian red stone path encompasses a large activity lawn designed for movement exercise programs such as Tai art and Yoga. A meditative labyrinth provides a terminal point for the garden. It is composed of granite gravel giant liriope  and seasonal daffodils, and winds through a grove of Drake Elm and Arkansas stone piers. It has emerged as a potent symbol of the power of an individual's spirit and has become the calling for the hospital complex.

 

Role of the Landscape Architect 

Landscape Architect was the designer in charge of the Wellness Center dining courtyard, outdoor bay garden, and the spiritual contemplative garden.  The project was created through interaction with the landscape architect and owner at, all phases of development. Discussions with the Wellness Garden team , comfort and innovation were conducted throughout the design process. The development of healing and wellness concept for the entire project was directly influenced by the landscape architect.

 

Special Factors

General design challenges had to be addressed by the Landscape Architect in order for the project to be successful. The restricted size of the site, the hospital’s program, requirements for the building, and the important of parking, limited the amount of space available for the garden. The landscape architect developed a plan that maximized the size of the courtyard by strategically placing the building and parking.

Adjacent highway also provided a noise challenge for creating a quiet contemplative garden. The landscape architect influenced the architect to develop a building that protected the garden from the noise from the highway and building mechanical units

highway and building mechanical units. The result of this collaborative effort is an amazingly spacious contemplative courtyard that is secluded from adjacent noises and the bustling urban environment.

 

Project Significance

Courtyard was designed to be a multi-functional garden providing contemplative, and recreational opportunities for its user. Wellness Center members, visitors, and employees now have a pleasant place to exercise, dine on healthy foods, and enjoy the restorative effects of nature.