The Heart of the Mater will transform the existing space into a vibrant, therapeutic green oasis at the heart of the hospital. Designed to support the well-being of patients, visitors, and staff, the new courtyard will provide a calming retreat that promotes relaxation, recovery, and social interaction.
Enhancing Health and Well-being Through Nature
Extensive research highlights the positive impact of green spaces on physical and mental health. By integrating lush planting, mature trees, and seasonal colour, the courtyard will create a restorative environment that reduces stress, encourages mindfulness, and supports faster recovery for patients. The introduction of modern seating and tables will allow individuals to spend time outdoors in comfort—whether for quiet reflection, social interaction, or respite from the clinical setting.
A Biodiverse and Sustainable Green Space
The planting scheme will feature a diverse mix of trees, shrubs, and perennials, carefully selected to provide year-round visual interest while enhancing biodiversity. Flowering and nectar-rich plants will support pollinators, and native species will attract birds and other wildlife, contributing to a healthier ecosystem within the hospital grounds. Raised planters will add structure, accessibility, and ease of maintenance while reinforcing a sense of enclosure and tranquillity.
A Functional and Accessible Outdoor Hub
Designed to be fully accessible, the courtyard will offer a seamless and inviting experience for all users, including those with mobility challenges. Wide pathways, step-free access, and well-positioned seating areas will ensure ease of movement and comfort. The incorporation of trees will provide much-needed shade, improving microclimate regulation and creating a cooler, more inviting outdoor space.
Through thoughtful landscape design, the hospital courtyard will become a dynamic focal point that fosters well-being, connection to nature, and biodiversity. It will serve as a sanctuary for recovery, contemplation, and social interaction—an essential green heart within the hospital environment.
The plant community
A key aspect of the development is the plant community which includes a diverse range of trees, shrubs, herbaceous and perennial species composed to provide a vibrant, year round display. Below are a number of key species.
Acer ginnala, Acer palmatum Sango Kaku, Amelanchier lamarkii, Ajuga atropurpurea, Anemanthele less. ‘Sirocco’, Anemone hyb. ‘Honorine Jobert’, Anemone nemrosa, Asplenium scolopendrium, Astrantia maj. ‘Claret’, Aquilega Ruby Port, Aquilega blue barlow, Bergenia cordifolia ‘Eroica’, Betula pendula, Brunnera Jack Frost , Crytomium fortunei , Epimedium perralc. ‘Frohnleiten’, Euphorbia amyg. robbiae, Geranium macr. ‘White Ness’, Geranium phaeum ‘Album’, Geranium sang. ‘Album’, Helleborus foetidus, Liriope muscari ‘Big Blue’, Liriope muscari ‘Monroe White’, Mahonia x media Winter Sun , Osmanthus delaveyi, Persicaria bistorta, Pulmonaria Silver Bouquet, Pulmonaria ‘Victorian Brooch’, Prunus incisa ‘The Bride’, Rodgersia pinnata, Sarcococca confusa, Skimmia japonica, Tillema grandilfora , Tiarella Sugar and Spice, Thalictrum delaveyi
You can download a coy of the landscape plan in PDF format here
