Garden of delight

Facility: Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital
Location: Chicago
Architect: Zimmer Gunsul Frasca Architects LLP in association with Solomon Cordwell Buenz and Anderson Mikos Architects
Landscape architect: Mikyoung Kim

The Crown Sky Garden on the 11th floor of the new Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children's Hospital of Chicago provides a quiet, innovative space where children, families and caregivers can relax and immerse themselves in nature without leaving the hospital.

The 5,000-square-foot garden was designed by world-renowned artist and landscape architect Mik­young Kim and is something that the hospital's Kids Advisory Board requested as the facility was being planned.

Kim wanted to create something that was imaginative and natural, but also sensitive to the needs of kids who are immune-deficient. She

A waterfall is contained between layers of marble for safe, toxin-free viewing and a tree house with a glass floor allows viewing from above for those unable to enter the garden.

Kim's design divides the garden into zones: areas closer to the cafeteria are designed for live performances, while areas closer to the windows encourage quiet times and serve as a respite for families and staff.

A translucent interactive light wall weaves throughout the garden at different heights, changing colors and brightness as people approach it.

To submit a Last Detail case for consideration, contact Jeff Ferenc at jferenc@healthforum.com.