A whimsical refuge for patients and families
Comer Children's Hospital Play Garden
| Location | Chicago, Illinois |
| Client | University of Chicago Medicine and Comer Children’s Hospital |
| Expertise | Inclusive & Accessible Design, Horticulture & Arboriculture |
| Size | 5,000 SF |
| Completion | 2018 |
Inclusive recreation as recovery
The play garden offers a safe, imaginative environment where patients and their families can find moments of refuge and joy. Play is expressed in many forms beyond just physical, with elements of music, nature, and art woven throughout a whimsical landscape inspired by the creative imagery of Dr. Seuss.
The garden is designed to be universally accessible, accommodating children in hospital beds, wheelchairs, and with IV equipment, through accessible pathways and integrated play features that allow nearly every space to be experienced.
A diverse range of play opportunities supports cognitive, social, and environmental development, as well as gross and fine motor skills, and speech and language growth. Musical instruments, a ball rolling maze, and balancing elements encourage movement and coordination, while colorful rubber mounds, willow tunnels, and living huts invite imaginative exploration.
Seating elements, including mushroom forms, pebble boulders, and log benches, blend function with play. Layered plantings of varied textures, forms, and colors contribute to a rich sensory experience that enhances the garden’s vibrancy.
The Comer Children’s Hospital play garden provides patients at every stage of recovery with a supportive environment to immerse themselves in play, explore, and process their feelings – reinforcing the essential connection between play, healing, and well-being.
Collaborators
SMP Group Design Associates
Civil Engineering
Awards
- 2020 Illinois ASLA Honor Award Design
