Healing Garden | Tōtara Haumaru

The Healing Garden at Tōtara Haumaru is an awe-inspiring example of biophilic design. Located in the indoor atrium at Tōtara Haumaru, at Auckland’s North Shore Hospital, the greenery flows across more than 110 square metres.

Research shows that views of nature can benefit patient recovery outcomes. Collaborating with Well Foundation and Jasmax, we applied these insights to bring this project to life. The entire project was funded by community donations.

We developed a new product, the Forest Form®, to create the authentically layered forest canopy. This features over 500 plants, including native species. A curving central walkway guides you through the space. Seating cocoons you amongst the greenery. 

A key part of the brief was to prioritise people. Many recovery rooms look directly out to the Healing Garden. Patients can still enjoy and experience the greenery, even if they are unable to walk through it. Medical staff have their own private area.