Life Enrichment Center

The Life Enrichment Center is a full-service adult day care and health facility, caring for

adults with physical and mental disabilities. Dirtworks developed a complete outdoor

setting for the Center which extends and complements the institution’s varied programs,

including therapeutic and social activities.

The garden provides three distinct settings that vary in size and character: the back

porch, the farm, and the meadow. Each of these spaces provides unique experiences,

combined with a calming transition between the areas.

Dirtworks collaborated with Michael Rubin Architects to design a sky-lit back porch

pavilion at the entrance to the garden, providing views of the entire garden within a safe

and accommodating environment. Overhead fans and a raised fireplace provide climate

control and flexibility to the space.

The farm features a formal promenade of fragrant trees and raised planters of various

heights, leading to a specially designed lawn which accommodates wheelchairs. Vine

covered trellises anchor the space on both ends, serving as an orientation landmark

while providing a comfortable destination for structured activities or casual socializing.

Beyond the farm area is the meadow zone, which includes a large open lawn, native

grasses, and woodland plantings. The open lawn provides recreation space for visitors

with children, while seating areas along a meandering path provide privacy and views of

the surrounding woodlands.

Location
Kings Mountain, NC

Size
1.2 acres

Completion
2010

Collaborators
Michael Rubin Architects

Recognition
2016 ASLA NY Honor Award