Quick, easy ways to focus on wellness

Designing For Emotional Wellness

Quiet Reflection Spaces
- Include secluded seating areas surrounded by lush greenery and calming natural elements like butterfly-friendly flowers or tall grasses. Make sure the space is warm and inviting vs cold and separated.
Water Features
- Install fountains or water walls to provide soothing sounds and creating a serene atmosphere.
Sensory Gardens
- Design gardens with fragrant flowers, textured plants, and soft grass to engage the senses and encourage mindfulness.
Comfortable Climates
- Add tree canopies, pergolas, or umbrellas to provide shade and make outdoor spaces usable year-round.
Memorial or Legacy Gardens
- Create spaces where residents can honor loved ones, commemorate milestones, or find peace during challenging times.

Community Amphitheater
- Build a small amphitheater or stepped seating area for live music, movie nights, or community meetings to bring people together.
Flexible Gathering Spaces
- Include open lawns or adaptable plazas that can host farmer’s markets, festivals, or casual gatherings. Make the spaces flexible so they can be programmed for events and let residents make changes to the space on their own.
Interactive Play Areas for All Ages
- Develop playgrounds and fitness zones that encourage intergenerational interaction and collaboration. Playgrounds can be for adults too! Explore the options for fitness zones or outdoor ninja warrior courses.
Outdoor Dining and Cooking Zones
- Add community BBQs, long picnic tables, or outdoor kitchens to foster shared meals and social bonding. Provide multiple spaces where possible that can be for big, hosted dinners or small wine and cheese nights.
Collaborative Art Installations 
- Incorporate public art projects like murals, sculptures, or gardens that invite resident participation, building pride and a sense of ownership. Think a chalk board wall or a set of art blocks, that let people build the art!