Hospital's rooftop gardens provide respite for patients and staff

Photo by ©Tom Rossiter

The Christ Hospital Joint & Spine Center of greater Cincinnati stands out as a health care destination for many reasons. It is the first and only center of its kind in the region and provides comprehensive orthopedic and spine care, sports medicine, rehabilitation, clinical research and education, all under one roof. But the center is unique for another reason — its two rooftop gardens provide stunning views of the Cincinnati skyline and beyond as well as a meeting room for as many as 100 people.

The center is the result of collaboration among Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP and patients, physicians and other medical and hospital staff.

The center transforms the way care is delivered for patients with joint and spine disorders: It was designed around their experiences, from the time of their first consultation until their last day of physical therapy. Adding aesthetically appealing features to the Joint & Spine Center was a major part of the design process. The Center includes outdoor spaces landscaped with native plantings, pergolas, benches and infinity fountains for respite and rehabilitation.

“The design was a collaborative process between the physicians and caregivers currently practicing at The Christ Hospital,” said Fred Kahn, M.D., executive medical director of musculoskeletal services at The Christ Hospital. “The patient-friendly and engaging environment allows for our doctors, nurses and caregivers to provide exceptional care.”