Project Description
In the early spring of 2012, Ariel Schrodt, a new resident of Three Crowns Park, had a vision of creating a memorial garden for his late wife, Ellen. He wanted to recreate the pond that he and his wife had built together at their previous residence. He donated several tons of Chilton Limestone boulders that he had used to build his own pond.
Throughout the summer, the community at Three Crowns came together to raise funds by selling memorial pavers and other donor items. In late summer, the community’s fundraising goal was reached, and our design for a restorative water garden was selected.
The end of construction coincided with the fifth anniversary of Three Crowns’ 2007 facility expansion. Despite the cold and windy weather on October 29th, 2012, many made it outside for a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Outdoor spaces of all sizes and settings are designed based on a set of principles. An outdoor area at a senior community must be easily navigable on paths of smooth hard material. It must also allow access, circulation, and full use by persons with disabilities. Beyond accessibility, these photos show other design principles that came into play in the design.
The layout of the garden and pathway was designed to invite exploration. The path was designed with materials that replicate the colors of a forest floor. It winds through other garden elements to create hidden views.
The senses are brought alive in this space, especially during peak summer bloom. Many butterfly species can be observed making the garden their home. When sitting in the garden, one can hear the soft flow of water from the pond.
A memorial garden can be the perfect place for quiet reflection. Three seating areas in the restorative garden provide safe, protected areas surrounded by lush plant life changing by the season. We can’t think of a better place to sit and enjoy nature.
All landscapes are constantly in flux, even from one day to the next. Gardeners quickly learn to view these changes at opportunities for improvement. Throughout the years, we have improved the garden with shade tree replacement, waterfall basin renovation, and garden expansion.
