Ranken Jordan pediatric specialty hospital –Maryland Heights, MO

Swat Design’s primary focus for the new Ranken Jordan Pediatric Specialty Hospital was to help children recover from debilitating injuries and illnesses by allowing them to experience the great outdoors. This philosophy of healing led to the primary design concept, a metaphor of an abstract children’s village-like hospital. The site features a challenge path, and interactive spray ground, two large playground units – one interior and one exterior, a butterfly garden, an imagination garden, a rose garden, a multi-purpose field an amphitheater lawn, and various themed sculptures. The outdoor butterfly and imagination gardens include native shrubs and perennials known to attract hummingbirds, butterflies, and other insect. An intimate collaboration was established with the architect to develop a successful inside-outside relationship. This exchange was achieved by using thematic surfaces that lead the eye outside with playful swirls of color. By far, SWT Design’s most important role in this project was creating a very imaginative site design throughout the campus.
2009 Central States American Society of Landscape Architects Merit Award

„Ranken Jordan’s space was a blend of ideas where creativity was encouraged between SWT Design and members of Ranken Jordan’s staff. The walking trail has proven to be useful on a daily basis for patients, family and staff. It is very soothing for the Ranken Jordan family to be able to leave our troubles behind and stroll along the path every day, enjoying the nature and beauty surrounding us.” Lauren Tanner, president & CEO, Ranken Jordan – A Pediatric Specialty Hospital