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MCDM AG.COM | M A RCH /A PR IL 2017 | Medical Construction & Design 41 Interior integration with seating selections In order to yield the sense of connection to nature for healing, design eff orts often strive toward creat- ing an indoor/outdoor feel in the spaces. The same logic can be applied when designing outdoor seating areas. It clarifi es the mode of use and encourages the use by visitors when the interior space has a residential feel and the exterior of a garden patio, or when the interior is a hospitality space and the exterior is a poolside. It helps to blur the boundary of the exterior wall, and encourages occupants to experience the outdoor space as comfortably as they do the indoor space. Another approach to landscape design is to cre- ate an environment akin to local nature, geography and vernacular. The seating area could be inter- preted appropriately to evoke a sense of being in touch with the greater outdoors. The landscaping retaining wall can turn into a spontaneous seating area, or the salvaged logs from a local site can be used as a bench. These are great ways to provide opportunities to be in touch with texture, warmth and richness. The ergonomics and the function should, of course, be taken into consideration. However, a one-size-fi ts-all solution will actually limit the use and imagination of the users. A successful design should provide opportunities for respite, congregation, intimacy and/or solitude as though they were spontaneously discovered, when actually they were thoroughly considered for ergonomics, safety and the ease of movement for patients, families and staff alike. The cross-disciplinary concept developed be- tween the architect, landscape designer and interior designer is key to successfully achieving integrated outdoor spaces and not making them appear as an afterthought. > Designed to expand therapy programs, outdoor spaces at Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital in Charlestown, Massachusetts are intended to encourage patients to seek fresh air and re-engage with people in the community. Landscape design incorporates granite blocks and live oak beams uncovered during site excavation, forming berms to protect the building from storm surge fl ooding from the adjacent Boston Harbor.