"Erasmus MC's roof garden has been designed with the well-being of its users in mind."
In the heart of Rotterdam, where bustling city life mixes with the incessant dynamics of modern healthcare, there is a remarkable place of tranquillity and nature: the roof garden of the Erasmus Medical Centre (Erasmus MC). This innovative and inspiring roof garden, located on the fifth floor of the building, provides a refreshing escape for patients, visitors and staff of the hospital.
Officially opened in 2018, Erasmus MC's roof garden was designed with the well-being of its users in mind. It not only provides an aesthetically pleasing environment, but also plays a crucial role in promoting recovery and well-being. Research has shown that the presence of greenery and nature in medical environments can help speed up recovery processes, reduce stress and improve patients' overall mood.
The garden covers an area of about 3,000 square metres and has been carefully landscaped with a diverse selection of plants, shrubs and trees. The variety of flora creates a blooming and colourful landscape throughout the seasons, offering every visitor a unique experience, regardless of the time of year. Specially designed walkways meander through the garden, providing an opportunity for quiet walks and contemplation. In addition, several seating areas have been created where one can relax and enjoy the green views.
What makes this roof garden special is the integration of sustainability into the design. The garden contributes to urban biodiversity and acts as a natural habitat for various bird species and insects. Moreover, the garden plays a role in improving air quality and regulating the temperature within the hospital building. Rainwater is efficiently collected and reused, contributing to Erasmus MC's sustainable water management.
For patients, the roof garden offers a welcome change from the hospital environment. The calm and serene setting can help reduce anxiety and pain, and provides a place where patients and their families can retreat for a moment of rest and reflection. For hospital staff, the roof garden is a valuable place for breaks and relaxation, contributing to their well-being and productivity.
Erasmus MC's roof garden is more than just a green space; it is a symbol of the hospital's progressive approach to care and well-being. It reflects Erasmus MC's commitment to promoting a holistic approach to health, focusing on both physical and mental well-being. This green oasis in the urban environment of Rotterdam is an inspiring example of how nature and healthcare can go hand in hand, and provides a model for other institutions worldwide to follow.
