The Brief: Responding to a direct call from Mildmay’s Director, Dr. Ross White, the brief was to create a true sanctuary garden that would offer its community three fundamental qualities: ‘safety’, ‘security’, and much-needed ‘support’. The space needed to become a therapeutic asset, providing a haven of peace and dignity for patients living with complex HIV-related conditions, as well as for their visiting families and the dedicated staff who care for them.

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Our Design Solution: Guided by our evidence-based framework, we sought to create a deeply immersive and restorative environment. The design is anchored by the symbolic 'AIDS ribbon pathway,' a gentle, flowing route that guides visitors through the space. This path culminates in an inclusive, semi-circular raised seating area, which is nestled within lush, multi-layered planting. This central hub was designed to be a safe, semi-enclosed space that encourages both quiet contemplation and supportive social connection, embodying the principles of prospect and refuge.

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The Outcome: The completed garden is a transformative space that has become the heart of the Mildmay community. It provides a tangible source of restoration and peace, directly answering the original brief for a safe and supportive environment. The garden serves as a living testament to the power of evidence-based design, measurably enhancing the well-being of its users and providing a vital, restorative asset for one of London's most important healthcare institutions.