Serge van der Voo Landscapes

Humans simply thrive in environments that provide them with opportunities to explore and to learn, to reflect, and to build social networks; natural environments are often rich with such opportunities. Research indicates that exposure to green space has a positive effect on human well-being: psychologically, physically, socially, and spiritually. By embracing this research we can thoughtfully address specific needs by harnessing nature’s beauty and its restorative powers.

These spaces are often designated as backyard settings which stimulate our sensory modes (smelling, seeing, hearing, touching, tasting, feeling, and remembering). By creating spaces specifically designed for gardening, exercise, and inter-generational activities patients extend their cognitive and physical abilities, develop social networks, and find emotional and spiritual solace.

Here are testimonials from patients commenting on a past healing garden project:

“….it’s as if I am much better than I am, or maybe I am much better for being out there.  I enjoy every minute.  I just like to be in that space, whatever my condition.”

“….it’s an inspiration to go out there, I feel as though there is still some beauty left in the world.”

So how can we create spaces that heal and provide solace?  We encourage…

• Inviting and accessible destinations with level and firm paving at all times.
• Sunny, comfortable, and easy-to-work raised soil/planting beds at the best working heights.
• Bright and colorful focal points that everyone can see.
• Curvilinear forms encouraging user physical circulation skills.
• Low maintenance planting choices.
• The experience of sound and motion.
• Shady seating areas or “nodes”.
• Easy to turn levers for gate latches, doors, and water faucets.
• A collection of specially designed tools for ergonomic raised bed gardening.
• Vertical planting spaces (hanging baskets, trellises, and wall gardens) to provide plants and vegetables within reach.