Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center

Terence Cardinal Cooke Health Care Center, a long-term care facility located in East

Harlem, provides services for the elderly and individuals with developmental disabilities

and HIV. Built in 1995 on a barren rooftop, the garden welcomes all residents, visitors

and staff and provides a specialized therapeutic environment for the adjacent AIDS care

wing. This early and influential project shows the effectiveness of gardens to enhance

the quality of the health care environment.

Internationally recognized for its creativity and sensitivity, the design focuses on the

specific needs of individuals with HIV. Numerous concerns are addressed, including

strength and stamina, varying sensory abilities, sunlight sensitivity, awareness, orientation

and the need for activity, interaction, privacy and independence. A horticultural therapy

program is linked to the Center’s physical and occupational therapy programs. Dirtworks,

PC provided complete professional services on a pro-bono basis. The firm has stayed

involved in the project since its inception, providing a unique opportunity for long-term

post-occupancy research with particular design observations regarding issues of safety

and security.

Location
New York, NY

Recognition
2008 ALSA NY Honor Award