Green Grow Garden: A Therapeutic Landscape for Elderly Engagement

Project by Hani Mansurnejad, Leils Senobari, and Mahin Azadpeyma | Shortlisted entry of Huddle

As cities face aging populations and increasing demands for inclusive environments, the "Green Grow Garden" project redefines elderly care architecture through the lens of therapeutic landscape architecture. This innovative design integrates interactive green spaces with flexible community functions, fostering wellness, engagement, and a sense of purpose among seniors.

At its core, Green Grow Garden is a multi-functional elderly care facility centered around a large, wall-free interaction space. Designed for adaptability, this zone accommodates activities such as movie nights, discussion groups, stand-up comedy sessions, and recreational events. The absence of walls symbolizes freedom and inclusion, promoting an open atmosphere for emotional and social connection.

What makes this project stand out is the modular gardening concept. The design team allocated 700 square meters of land into 32 square plots (each 5m x 5m) tailored for urban agriculture. These garden boxes not only encourage physical activity and food production but also empower residents to collaborate, exchange knowledge, and sell their produce within the site. This framework transforms passive care into active participation, promoting mental and physical well-being.

In alignment with sustainable and climate-sensitive principles, the gardens adapt to the local ecosystem. The green infrastructure acts as both a community hub and an environmental buffer, making Green Grow Garden a prime example of therapeutic landscape architecture that supports biodiversity, resilience, and human connection.

Indoor amenities further enhance the holistic care model. Facilities include a gym, salon, restaurant, and official spaces spread across two floors, with rooftop areas designed for relaxation and panoramic enjoyment. The architecture ensures smooth transitions between indoor and outdoor environments, supporting both mobility and inclusivity for diverse user needs.

By combining modular garden design, flexible communal areas, and sustainable practices, Green Grow Garden fosters a nurturing environment for the elderly. It is not just a building—it's a living, breathing therapeutic landscape that strengthens intergenerational bonds and reinvents aging with dignity.