A Critical Access Hospital in Southeast Alaska Supports Healing with Connections to the Outdoors
One of several projects we have in works for SouthEast Alaska Regional Health Consortium (SEARHC) is a critical access hospital in Haines, Alaska. The overarching vision for the project is to unify all healthcare services into a single, accessible facility. In addition to helping to address the functional and operational needs of the hospital and its staff, we’re also focused on creating the very best patient experience through a variety of ways, including landscape architecture.
Located in the northern part of Alaska’s Inside Passage, Haines is known for its fjords, glaciers, and lush temperate rainforest. The beauty of nature here is abundant, and people hold a great affinity for the outdoors. Thus, our landscape architecture concepts for the project take inspiration from this surrounding environment with an eye to best utilizing what’s already in place.
Three outdoor areas will define the project — a main entry, a long-term care entry, and a long-term care courtyard — and will blend in with the natural environment and complement the architectural aesthetic of the building.
Main Entry Design
The main entry design welcomes people with a reassuring presence that fosters a sense of dignity and comfort from the moment of arrival. The experience is intuitive and unhurried, allowing individuals to gather themselves and feel supported as they transition inward. This “quiet” connection to the building is intended to help people feel grounded rather than overwhelmed.
The entry environment is shaped by a human-centered approach that prioritizes accessibility and ease of movement. Landscape berms and subtly raised planting areas contribute to a setting that feels protected, reinforcing a sense of shelter and care.
Nearby pathways and nature-inspired features offer moments for pause, reflection, and composure. Altogether, the experience provides clear wayfinding and establishes a sense of place — one that encourages people to feel at ease and respected as they move forward on their healing journey.
Conceptual renderings of the main entry for the SEARHC critical access hospital in Haines. Cushing Terrell’s landscape architecture team are engaged in developing a variety of concepts for the client to explore.
Long-Term Care Entry Design
The long-term care entry is conceived as a more intimate threshold, separate from the main entry, where the pace slows and the experience becomes more personal and restorative. It’s designed to feel familiar rather than formal, offering residents, families, and caregivers a quiet place to exist in nature.
The design supports clear orientation and accessibility, fostering independence and a sense of belonging where people can engage with the space in ways that best suit their needs and abilities.
Guided by principles of holistic wellness, the environment encourages people to enjoy light movement, fresh air, sunlight, and repose. The nature-inspired surroundings create a grounded and restorative atmosphere that helps reduce stress, build confidence, and promote ongoing healing and a continuous path toward wellness.
Conceptual renderings of the long-term care entry for the SEARHC critical access hospital in Haines.
Long-Term Care Courtyard Design
The long-term care courtyard is envisioned as a restorative outdoor retreat tied to the rhythms of daily life where residents and their families can spend time together.
Guided by principles of rehabilitation, the courtyard supports both physical activity and emotional well-being. Opportunities for quiet reflection as well as social connection are integrated throughout with paths and seating areas that encourage residents to participate at their own pace. The courtyard is planned to include an outdoor kitchen and raised garden beds to further support a home-like feel.
The design is meant to evoke a sense of enclosure and care; a place where people feel protected, at ease, and encouraged to spend meaningful time outdoors. The creative re-use of existing large boulders on the site contributes to the grounded nature of the space and are interspersed with native plantings.
The surrounding natural environment combined with the elements of the landscape design for the hospital shape a serene setting that supports ongoing care, strengthens connections, and enhances quality of life through a balanced, holistic approach to healing.
Conceptual renderings of the long-term care courtyard for the SEARHC critical access hospital in Haines.
