Te Marino Garden: A Sanctuary at Christchurch Hospital
Sep 13, 2021
The Te Marino podium garden at Christchurch Hospital represents a beacon of hope and solace for patients, their families, and hospital staff. Designed by RMM in collaboration with a dedicated team of staff, friends, and initially with architects Warren and Mahoney, this garden is part of Waipapa, the hospital's new extension. RMM's role encompassed detailed design and contract administration, ensuring the vision of Te Marino was brought to life with precision and care.
A Connection to Nature
Perched on the third floor, the Te Marino podium garden visually connects with the lush canopy of the adjacent Botanic Gardens. This visual harmony with nature is central to the garden’s design, providing a sense of familiarity and tranquility. Named Te Marino, meaning "the calm," this garden aims to be a serene retreat for patients, staff, and visitors alike.
A Garden for All
Te Marino is crafted to be a shared space where nature and people coexist in harmony. The garden is visually soothing, designed to bring a sense of peace to those who overlook it from their rooms. Overflowing planters filled with both native and exotic plants create a vibrant connection to Ōtautahi, Christchurch. The integration of natural elements known for their positive and restorative influences on mood is a core aspect of the design.
Engaging and Inviting Space
The garden is more than just a visual delight; it is an interactive space. Street art transforms the ventilation stacks into vibrant narratives, adding color and life to the environment. Timber decking, seating areas, tables, and an artificial turf mound encourage exploration, respite, reflection, and play. The use of curvilinear shapes instead of rigid rectangular forms invites gentle movement and flow, enhancing the garden's calming effect.
A Haven of Wellbeing
Te Marino is designed with the hope of promoting relief from symptoms, reducing stress, and improving the overall sense of wellbeing for all who use or gaze upon the garden. It is a place for solace, where patients can find a moment of peace, families can gather for support, and staff can take a break from their demanding roles. The garden's design aims to foster a sense of hopefulness and emotional relief.
Imagery and Inspiration
Some of the inspiring imagery for Te Marino has been provided by Warren and Mahoney, capturing the essence of this innovative garden. As Te Marino comes to life, it stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating spaces that heal, inspire, and bring solace to those in need.
RMM is proud to have contributed to a project that will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of many, setting a new standard for hospital environments. Through Te Marino, Christchurch Hospital is not just a place of treatment but a sanctuary of healing and hope.
A Connection to Nature
Perched on the third floor, the Te Marino podium garden visually connects with the lush canopy of the adjacent Botanic Gardens. This visual harmony with nature is central to the garden’s design, providing a sense of familiarity and tranquility. Named Te Marino, meaning "the calm," this garden aims to be a serene retreat for patients, staff, and visitors alike.
A Garden for All
Te Marino is crafted to be a shared space where nature and people coexist in harmony. The garden is visually soothing, designed to bring a sense of peace to those who overlook it from their rooms. Overflowing planters filled with both native and exotic plants create a vibrant connection to Ōtautahi, Christchurch. The integration of natural elements known for their positive and restorative influences on mood is a core aspect of the design.
Engaging and Inviting Space
The garden is more than just a visual delight; it is an interactive space. Street art transforms the ventilation stacks into vibrant narratives, adding color and life to the environment. Timber decking, seating areas, tables, and an artificial turf mound encourage exploration, respite, reflection, and play. The use of curvilinear shapes instead of rigid rectangular forms invites gentle movement and flow, enhancing the garden's calming effect.
A Haven of Wellbeing
Te Marino is designed with the hope of promoting relief from symptoms, reducing stress, and improving the overall sense of wellbeing for all who use or gaze upon the garden. It is a place for solace, where patients can find a moment of peace, families can gather for support, and staff can take a break from their demanding roles. The garden's design aims to foster a sense of hopefulness and emotional relief.
Imagery and Inspiration
Some of the inspiring imagery for Te Marino has been provided by Warren and Mahoney, capturing the essence of this innovative garden. As Te Marino comes to life, it stands as a testament to the power of thoughtful design in creating spaces that heal, inspire, and bring solace to those in need.
RMM is proud to have contributed to a project that will undoubtedly make a positive impact on the lives of many, setting a new standard for hospital environments. Through Te Marino, Christchurch Hospital is not just a place of treatment but a sanctuary of healing and hope.
