Austin Hospital - Balcony Garden | Evergreen Infrastructure

Vertical garden with lush green plants against a cloudy sky.

Design

Evergreen Infrastructure

Planter boxes

Bloom Box

Green wall materials

Uniseal

Installation

MJC Horticulture & Evergreen Infrastructure

Evergreen Infrastructure was appointed by Austin Health to co-design alongside their Horticultural supervisor a green wall and planter installation to provide new greensapces on the level 3 balcony outside of the Spinal Ward. This space is ued by patients, staff and is overseen by many others from adjacent rooms and walkways.

Form

The existing balcony, a spacious area frequently used by staff and patients, had become worn and in need of revitalisation. To breathe new life into this space, the plan was to transform it into a lush green sanctuary—a tranquil retreat where visitors can momentarily escape the stresses of the hospital environment and reconnect with nature.

About the project

The project involved the transformation of a spacious yet run-down balcony into a vibrant green sanctuary designed to offer hospital staff and patients a much-needed escape from the stresses of the healthcare setting. The revitalised space now features lush green walls and numerous planters brimming with a variety of greenery, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere. These elements were carefully integrated to enhance the aesthetic appeal while promoting mental well-being, fostering a connection to nature, and providing a calming retreat within the hospital environment. The result is a rejuvenated space that harmoniously blends functionality with the restorative power of greenery.

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Impact

This project creates human and social capital through the correct use of space and plant use. Biodiversity hotspot. Creates a cooling effect for vistors to this balcony space. Creates environmental capital for neighborhood with its connection to local environment

Benefits

Environmental

Biodiversity

Reducing urban heat

Connection to surrounding environment

Social

Wellbeing

Retreat

Connection with Nature

Social Space

Learning Environment

Food Security

Learning Space

Economic

Cooling Effect

thermal cooling for building

Fresh Food for Restaurant and Cafe

Clean Air

Vertical garden with a variety of green plants under a partly cloudy sky.

"Designing green spaces in hospitals transforms these typically sterile environments into calming sanctuaries. By integrating greenery, we provide staff, patients, and visitors a much-needed escape from the stress of illness and work. These spaces promote mental restoration, enhance well-being, and redefine healthcare design by fostering a vital connection to nature."

Quote from Designer