Clarence E. Harris Pavillion at Siskin Hospital

Siskin Hospital for Physical Rehabilitation is dedicated to improving the lives of those who have experienced life-altering injury, surgery, or illness and are courageously pursuing recovery. Siskin’s leadership recognized the research-backed link between nature and healing and sought to provide a space for targeted therapies. The Clarence E. Harris Pavilion and Healing Gardens create a restorative environment that fosters physical, emotional, and social well-being through a deep connection to nature.

Drawing inspiration from the natural strength and interconnectedness of a grove of trees, the pavilion serves as an integral point along the healing journey. The pavilion intentionally transitions the experience as visitors move from a public pathway into progressively more private, immersive spaces for interaction, therapy, and meditation, aligning the spatial experience with stages of healing. The pathway that meanders through the entire garden is made from a variety of materials, enabling individuals who are relearning to walk to practice on different surfaces. 

The pavilion’s roof form, anchored yet lifted above the landscape, offers both shelter and openness—protecting visitors from the elements while maintaining an immersive relationship with the surrounding gardens. The pavilion creates a seamless transition between the built and natural environments.

Special design considerations are thoughtfully incorporated to create an inviting and accessible environment that appeals to a variety of senses. The seating features armrests that are spaced appropriately to accommodate wheelchairs, promoting comfort and accessibility for all visitors. Walkways encourage a slower pace, allowing guests to fully appreciate their surroundings. A variety of plants with different textures have been selected to offer rich tactile experiences, while sunny and shaded areas will provide comfortable spots for relaxation. Fresh herbs and flowering plants are used to engage the senses of smell and sight, and the addition of artwork, such as sculptures, will promote visual interest and stimulation throughout the space.

The canopy structure, composed of exposed steel trusses, pays homage to Siskin’s historical roots in the steel industry, grounding the pavilion in the cultural and material history of Chattanooga. A patterned metal screen filters sunlight, reducing heat gain and creating dynamic, calming environments throughout the day. The structure modulates sunlight and shadow, creating dynamic and calming sensory experiences throughout the day. The interplay of light, shadow, sound, and material invites moments of sensory engagement and personal reflection. Movable panels enhance the pavilion’s flexibility, enabling it to accommodate a wide range of community needs—from therapy sessions to educational programs to quiet personal reflection.

The project also prioritizes ecological stewardship. The building's siting and massing are carefully tuned to maximize natural ventilation, optimize daylight, and preserve existing site ecology. Native plantings enhance biodiversity and create a resilient landscape that supports local pollinators and wildlife, while also reducing irrigation demands.

Durable, low-maintenance materials were selected to promote the project’s longevity and reduce environmental impact over time. Thoughtfully designed to minimize embodied carbon and integrate sustainably with its context, the pavilion demonstrates how architecture can support healing—both human and ecological.

Through the thoughtful integration of architecture, ecology, and human experience, the Pavilion and Healing Gardens embody the Siskin Institute’s commitment to inclusive, sustainable healing spaces.

Photo credit: Darren Johnson - 161 Photography