RESEARCH

Small Garden, Big Impact: Emotional and Behavioral Responses of Visitors to a Rooftop Atrium in a Major Hospital

The study demonstrates that visitors’ satisfaction with a healing garden leads to greater overall satisfaction with the hospital and a higher likelihood of returning or recommending the hospital. The garden’s positive impact suggests that even small, thoughtfully designed green spaces can significantly enhance visitor experience within healthcare settings.

Program Types: Social

Population Groups: General Population

Setting or Context: Hospitals/Clinics

Health and Wellness Outcomes: Improved Mental Health, Enhanced Emotional Well-being, Improved Stress Management

Allied Profession Intersections: Landscape Design

Type of Activity: Forest/Natural Area Immersion

Evidence Type: Peer-Reviewed Studies, Randomized Controlled Trials, Quantitative Research

Measurement and Evaluation: Standardized Assessment Tools

Access: Available Upon Request

Print Form

Summary

This research examined how a small healing garden in a hospital impacts the visitors’ overall experience and satisfaction. The study found that spending time in the healing garden made visitors feel more satisfied with the hospital. These positive feelings extended beyond the garden, leading to stronger intentions to revisit the hospital or recommend it to others. Essentially, a well-designed garden can significantly improve visitors’ perceptions and future behaviors toward the hospital.

Overall, the findings suggest that incorporating healing gardens in hospital design can enhance visitor satisfaction and promote positive behavioral intentions, such as returning to or recommending the hospital. This is significant because it highlights a relatively simple way healthcare facilities can improve their environment and patient relations.

Link

Martin, K., Nanu, L., Kwon, W.S., & Martin, D. (2021). Small garden, big impact: Emotional and behavioral responses of visitors to a rooftop atrium in a major hospital. HERD, 14(3), 274-287

Other Recommended Research

“Connecting people and the earth”: the occupational experience of people with different capabilities participating in an inclusive horticultural social enterprise

This thesis examines how a gardening-based social enterprise helps people of all abilities by providing meaningful work, social connections, and a sense of belonging. While it highlights the benefits of inclusion and community participation, it also points out challenges like funding and governance that need to be addressed for long-term success.

‘Into the Wild’: A meta-synthesis of talking therapy in natural outdoor spaces

This Meta-synthesis highlights the benefits of holding therapy sessions in nature, which can reduce stress, improve mood, and enhance emotional well-being. While outdoor therapy offers unique advantages, such as greater openness and connection with nature, it also requires careful consideration of client suitability and professional training.

‘The nourishing soil of the soul’: The role of horticultural therapy in promoting well-being in community-dwelling people with dementia

Gardening can help people with dementia feel more active, connected, and less lonely by improving their physical and mental well-being. The article highlights the need for more accessible gardening programs in the community to support social engagement and a better quality of life.