Nature is a Key Element

Nature has always been known to having a calming effect. It is our goal to bring people pleasure and comfort from the gardens. When we set out to build the region’s first freestanding hospice home and center for care, we envisioned a setting where patients, family members, visitors, volunteers and staff could find respite, comfort and tranquility. Set among old growth trees and a variety of new deciduous and evergreen trees, the facility would be surrounded by healing gardens, composed of native shrubs, flowering trees, grasses and perennials.

During the design process for the new Pepper Family Hospice Home and Center for Care, special consideration was given to the exterior landscaping as well as with bringing the outdoors in—each patient room was designed with large picture windows and oversized French doors to flood the area with natural light and offer expansive views of the gardens. The protected patios outside each patient room accommodate a patient’s bed or wheelchair, and still have room for a bench for visitors. Down to the smallest detail, the goal was to create a healing environment that would reduce pain and stress, and promote peace and tranquility for everyone using the building.

Particular attention was paid to choosing plants with four-season interest and color, while still using native species that were also deer resistant.

Throughout the property, patios and walkways will be situated to connect private and public spaces; and on the paths and patios are benches, tables and chairs specially designed for the needs of healthcare patients.

In addition, the large detention area adjacent to the building will be designed using native grasses, shrubs and prairie wildflowers to improve water quality and create a wildlife habitat.

Both inside the building and out, the project’s architects used evidenced-based healthcare design to create healing gardens that are truly integrated with the building design, to better serve hospice patients, their families, staff, visitors and volunteers alike.

We’re going Green

The new inpatient facility will be constructed in line with the guidelines for the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED™) "Green Building" Rating System. LEED-certified buildings cost less to operate and maintain, are energy- and water-efficient, are healthier and safer for occupants, and use resources more effectively. The Hospice Home project is targeting a silver rating for the design and construction. To obtain the silver rating under the LEED system, HNI’s architects not only designed the building to be energy efficient, but took extra efforts such as ensuring that it will feature a high percentage of natural lighting, that native plants will be used throughout the landscaping and as few trees as possible are removed from the property. Click for more information