Nature that nurtures: A healing park for a local hospital and its surrounding community
The healing power of nature has been recognized for thousands of years, but the intrinsic connection between us and our surroundings was first scientifically studied only about four decades ago by researcher, Roger Ulrich. Since then, there has been a growing field of evidence-based studies that has shown how human health and well-being are inextricably linked to nature – just three to five minutes in a natural setting can begin to reduce anxiety and pain, while also inducing relaxation.

Healing green spaces are needed more than ever at hospitals where stress levels are high in both patients and staff. In the neighborhood of Westlake, Los Angeles, this project transforms an underused hospital parking lot into a nurturing, restorative park for the patients, staff, and visitors of PIH Good Samaritan Hospital, as well as the diverse communities that surround it. This addition to the hospital campus will create a holistic environment in which one can move with ease and contemplate with comfort.