Comparative Analysis of Landscape Elements in a Restorative Hospice in Southwest Nigeria

The global recognition of the therapeutic role of nature in healthcare design has continued to grow.Yet, many hospices, particularly in Nigeria still lack restorative landscape features that canenhance the quality of end-of-life care. While restorative environments have been widely discussedin hospital and general healthcare contexts, limited attention has been given to their integrationwithin hospice settings. This study employed a qualitative case study approach to examine twohospices in Southwest Nigeria, focusing specifically on the presence, absence, and adequacy oflandscape elements within their outdoor environments. Findings show that key restorativecomponents such as gardens, courtyards, shaded sitting areas, walkways, and water features arelargely missing or insufficiently incorporated, limiting the potential for these spaces to function assupportive hospice environments. By documenting the current state of landscape integration in theselected facilities, the study highlights the need for intentional and context-responsive landscapeplanning as part of hospice architectural design. The research contributes empirical evidence onexisting gaps and provides a basis for future efforts aimed at improving outdoor environments inNigerian hospices through more deliberate incorporation of restorative landscape elements.