situation:
Alegent's Lakeside Hospital wanted to create tranquil, indoor healing gardens dedicated to cancer patients and their visiting family members, with artificial plants as a major component. Preliminary sketches called for a variety of artificial plants, volcanic rock, a peaceful color-changing waterfall, fireplace, and seating areas made of natural materials. These healing garden plants would promote relaxation in a nurturing space rich with life and energy.
Commercial Silk Int'l was contracted to design the interior landscaping solution, and to manufacture and install the healing garden plants and trees. Several factors contributed to the final design of the indoor healing gardens, including commercial fire codes, the authenticity of the artificial plants, creating a peaceful and restorative environment, and -- most importantly -- the Infection Prevention Team requiring that all materials be toxin free.
initiatives:
To meet these technical criteria while establishing a restorative environment, the healing garden trees and silk plants were carefully yet rigorously crafted. Since the health and well-being of cancer patients was directly involved, the entire Commercial Silk Int'l plant manufacturing process was reviewed. A large artificial Paper Birch tree, (donated by a family with ties to the hospital), for example, was cured for 12 hours, chemical free, to eliminate all traces of moisture in the stem. Other large artificial trees were crafted with real wood stems to boost authenticity. Additionally, volcanic rock was used en lieu of soil to eliminate the possibility of mold and mildew.
Working with the lead architect, the Commercial Silk Int'l design team provided a comprehensive landscape plan that detailed fire retardant plant specifications and planting locations in harmony with other fire, light and water elements incorporated into the indoor healing gardens. Several installation challenges, including restricted access and angled stairwells and doorways, were overcome by experienced installers who had to cut the Paper Birch tree in half at headquarters and reassemble it inside the hospital.
results:
The indoor healing gardens feature a northwoods theme with earth, wind, fire, and water elements where patients, family members, visitors, and even employees are often seen resting, relaxing, and reflecting. Overall, the restorative garden was a demanding project that required Commercial Silk Int'l to make a real commitment to cancer patients and their families. As the old adage goes, you get out what you put in, and in our case, we are proud and grateful to have been a part of such a successful and inspiring project.
location:
Omaha, NE