Rosecrance healing garden and patio brings serenity

Rosecrance, a leader in substance abuse and mental health care in Illinois, Iowa and Wisconsin, hired Fehr Graham to enhance a cafeteria expansion at its Rockford, Illinois, campus. Leaders wanted an area for outdoor eating, group sessions and family retreats. Our team worked with them to create a contemplative area and healing garden. Rosecrance leaders stressed they wanted our designs to prioritize privacy and create a setting that delighted patients and guests.

We needed to work around a drainage swale that carries a large volume of water by grading the site to keep it moving away from the building. Leaders also wanted a water feature with fish and plants to enhance relaxation, which required us to add more filtration. The area provides a public gathering space that is private and intimate. The patio features smaller pods that are more private.

Our landscape architects helped select the furnishings and gave input on irrigation, lighting, landscaping and the water feature.

AT A GLANCE
» Designed patio.
» Completed construction observation.