Reframing Enclosure: Applying Therapeutic Landscape Design to Coffee Creek Correctional Facility Anna Epstein Department of Landscape Architecture University of Oregon A master’s project completed in partial fulfillment of MLA degree requirements Epstein (2025) Acknowledgements A huge thank you to the following individuals, who generously offered their time, guidance, and insight to help me along the way: Residents in the CCCF Transitional Unit — for participating in this study and graciously sharing their perspectives, without which this project would not have been possible Ruben DeAnda — for facilitating all site visits that allowed for direct engagement, as well as for persistent enthusiasm and project support Rima Green — for helping to identify a project site and for connecting me with Ruben and CCCF Gwynne Mhuireach, PhD — for many meaningful contributions—support, enthusiasm, and, most of all, for creating the connections that made it possible for me to pursue this project Yekang Ko, PhD — for project assistance and for taking on the role of Faculty Advisor throughout the IRB process Ellee Stapleton, PhD — for offering encouragement during the final stretch of this project, and for helping me learn to incorporate community engagement into design work throughout my time at UO Noah Kerr, PhD — for consistently providing thoughtful, in-depth feedback that helped me further develop the conceptual and theoretical foundations of this project Daniel Winterbottom, RLA, FASLA — for taking time to meet with me and sharing valuable insights about prison gardens, as well as guidance for navigating direct engagement in a prison setting Brian Bainson, RLA — for kindly answering my questions about healing gardens and offering expert input Shelby Scharen, RLA — for providing recommendations for this project and helping me improve my graphic skills through applied work experience MLA Cohort — for friendship, as well as generously sharing skills, knowledge, and thoughtful feedback over the past three years Table of Contents 1. Introduction project purpose site introduction methods 2. Literature Review prison gardens healing gardens gap in knowledge therapeutic landscape design guidelines precedent study 3. Engagement background methods findings 4. Site Design site overview site plan - planting + overall layout perspective renderings 5. Reflection project recap next steps + future objectives AIC – Adult in Custody (used by the Oregon Department of Corrections instead of terms like “inmate” or “prisoner”) CCCF – Coffee Creek Correctional Facility GIPA – Gender Informed Practices Assessment IRB – Institutional Review Board ODOC – Oregon Department of Corrections Glossary Introduction Epstein (2025) Design Opportunity at CCCF Notably, one of the reported actions by CCCF stated that: “The CCCF team will be supporting the creation of a healing space at CCCF. A memorial healing garden is being created by the residents and Mr. Kurisu “H.K.” who designed the garden at OSP. CCCF residents have provided initial input and will meet with HK this summer to finalize the design plans. A healing space within a natural setting is essential to residents and staff making use of the space. This will be a multi-year project with fundraising and community engagement.” (Yoshimoto et al., 2023) The site selected for this design project is located on the minimum-security campus of Oregon’s only women’s prison— Coffee Creek Correctional Facility (CCCF). Over the past five years, a variety of investigations, lawsuits, and convictions have called attention to the facility’s harsh conditions, as well as its failure to protect incarcerated women from abuse and misconduct committed by CCCF employees. In 2023, a team of experts from the Women’s Justice Institute as well as the Center for Effective Public Policy conducted a Gender Informed Practices Assessment (GIPA) at CCCF. The report concluded that CCCF was “not gender responsive, evidence-based, nor trauma- informed,” characterizing it as “replete with dysfunction and dominated by a para-military and punitive culture, resulting in countless harms to incarcerated women daily.” In response to the GIPA process, the facility reported that a series of actions had been taken to begin improving polices, practices, and programs at CCCF. (Yoshimoto et al., 2023) Image source: “Coffee Creek Correctional Facility” (2025) Project Purpose This project aimed to develop a conceptual design for outdoor areas adjacent to the CCCF transitional unit by synthesizing evidence-based therapeutic landscape design principles with findings from direct participant engagement and observational study of the site. Epstein (2025) This project is not affiliated with the aforementioned commitment made by CCCF. However, the research focus and site design proposal included in this project reinforces the goals of this initiative by creating a healing outdoor space in the minimum-security transitional residential unit. Experts in the field of landscape architecture have already generated knowledge on the topic of prison gardens, which is often focused on carceral settings where the user group will be incarcerated for long periods of time, if not the rest of their lives. This project addresses a gap in knowledge that is concerned specifically with prison gardens serving a unique user group — women preparing for release from incarceration. Findings obtained through direct engagement with AICs and staff at CCCF provide an original contribution to landscape architecture research. Site Introduction 500 feet Transitional Unit Minimum Security Medium Security Map source: Google Earth (2025) Coffee Creek Correctional Facility • 21 residents (capacity: 25 people) • Average stay ~6 months (5 years maximum) Wilsonvi l le, Oregon Copyright © Free Vector Maps.com �������� ������ ����������� Site selection The site selection process was completed immediately following a site visit in August of 2024. During this visit, I met with Ruben DeAnda (Director, CCCF Transitional Services) to discuss the possibility of collaborating on a site design proposal that could be used to improve outdoor areas adjacent to the transitional unit. This preliminary visit was coordinated with the help of Rima Green (Director, Lettuce Grow Program) Lettuce Grow is a partnership between the Portland-based non-profit Growing Gardens, ODOC and the Federal Bureau of Prisons that provides “hands-on garden-based classes and workshops for Oregon Incarcerated students” through which participants can earn skills and professional credentials that support successful re-entry following incarceration, as well as grow fresh produce to help to supplement nutrition for incarcerated people throughout ODOC facilities (“Lettuce Grow,” n.d.). I was connected with Rima via email in the spring of 2024 with the help of Gwynne Mhuireach, PhD (Research Assistant Professor in the Institute for Health in the Built Environment, University of Oregon) and Gail Langellotto, PhD (Professor of Horticulture, Oregon State University). During the summer of 2024, I spoke with Rima over the phone to discuss the possibility of identifying a site within an ODOC facility that would be appropriate for a student design project. Rima made expectations clear—regardless of which site ended up being selected, the project must be grounded in reality and address an immediate need in a given facility. • Oregon’s only women’s prison (minimum + medium security facilities) • Provides intake and evaluation of every individual committed to state custody (capacity: 1,685 people) • Built in 2001 in response to increased demand for prison space created with the passage of Ballot Measure 11 in 1994, which imposed mandatory minimum sentences for certain crimes (“Coffee Creek Correctional Facility,” 2025) Methods + Project Timeline Engagement Spring 2024 Summer 2024 Fall 2024 Winter 2024-2025 Spring 2025 Summer 2025 Literature Review Precedents Theory Design Principles IRB Process Site Visits Interviews (AICs + content experts) Site Design draft Engagement Group Discussion (design feedback) Site Selection Site Design final Site selection (completed) First site visit (August) (completed) •site visits •interviews + group feedback (completed) continued involvement Literature Review IRB application Engagement •site visits •observational study (project approved) •site visits •interviews Conceptual site design IRB Process Site Visits Observational Study Interviews + Group Discussion (residents in Transitional Unit and CCCF staff) Literature Review Background Gap in Knowledge Design Guidelines Precedent Study Findings + Significance Literature Review Background Gap in Knowledge Design Guidelines Precedent Study Findings + Significance Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Image source: “U.S. Jails Fail to Meet Needs of Growing Population of Women” (2016) Prison Gardens restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition The lack of access to nature is a universal experience among people who are incarcerated in the United States. Over the last 30 years, U.S. prisons have widely begun to adopt “green prison programs,” which provide incarcerated populations with a form of eco-therapy through activities like gardening, caring for nature, and plant cultivation. (Van Der Linden, 2015) These programs can provide a wide range of benefits and often share a variety of programmatic goals, such as providing opportunities for incarcerated people to have contact with nature, access to fresh food, or vocational training. Prison garden programs have been found to: • promote feelings of self-worth, purpose, and self-efficacy (Van Der Linden, 2015) • reduce levels of anxiety, depression, and stress • improve physical health (Fisk & Hamilton-Giachristis, 2024) Image source: “In-Prison Programs” (2025) Garden Program Objectives Healing Gardens Throughout history, nature has been seen as intrinsic to healing. Monastic settings provide early instances of healing gardens, which were often enclosed by an arcaded cloister. (Cooper Marcus & Sachs, 2014) Image source: “Rapunzel” (2025) Healing Gardens Healing garden definition: a garden that can positively influence visitors in a variety of ways (Stigsdotter, 2002) All healing gardens should: • prioritize safety, accessibility, and legibility • foster physical and emotional comfort • provide options for both privacy and social interaction • create opportunities for nature contact and positive distraction (Cooper Marcus & Sachs, 2014) Healing Gardens Healing Gardens Medical Facilities Designed Therapeutic Landscapes Natural Landscapes Hospitals Children’s Hospitals Cancer Treatment Facilities Mental + Behavioral Health Rehabilitation End-of-Life + Age-Related Facilities Hospice Long-term Residential Facilities Alzheimer’s + Dementia Care Retirement Facilities + Assisted Living Veterans + Active Personnel Services Public Spaces Medicine + HealthcareLandscape Architecture Healing gardens are currently found in a variety of medical, residential, and therapeutic settings Healing Gardens Medical Facilities Designed Therapeutic Landscapes Natural Landscapes Hospitals Children’s Hospitals Cancer Treatment Facilities Mental + Behavioral Health Rehabilitation End-of-Life + Age-Related Facilities Hospice Long-term Residential Facilities Alzheimer’s + Dementia Care Retirement Facilities + Assisted Living Veterans + Active Personnel Services Public Spaces Medicine + HealthcareLandscape Architecture Healing Gardens Medical Facilities Designed Therapeutic Landscapes Natural Landscapes Hospitals Children’s Hospitals Cancer Treatment Facilities Mental + Behavioral Health Rehabilitation End-of-Life + Age-Related Facilities Hospice Long-term Residential Facilities Alzheimer’s + Dementia Care Retirement Facilities + Assisted Living Veterans + Active Personnel Services Public Spaces Medicine + HealthcareLandscape Architecture Correctional Facilities Gap in Knowledge Healing gardens could be adapted to correctional facilities to improve living conditions and benefit incarcerated user groups by providing garden-related programming Therapeutic Garden Design Guidelines Guidelines selected for the CCCF transitional unit include: • universal requirements • recommendations for behavioral + mental health facilities Applied design principles fall under the following categories: *For full list of applied design guidelines and an inventory of how they were used in each garden room, see Appendix A comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways Precedent Study Overview restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways GreenHouse Garden Insight Garden Memorial Healing Garden Quiet Garden Alnarp Rehabilitation Garden Garden Program Objectives Design Guidelines Pr iso n Ga rd en s H ea lin g Ga rd en s Pr iso n Ga rd en s H ea lin g Ga rd en s Pr iso n Ga rd en s H ea lin g Ga rd en s Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Precedent Study Matrix ������������ ���������������������������� �������������� ������� �������� �������� �� � ��������� GREENinc (2016) water garden benches privacy screens/art pond gazebo walking path gazebo seating paths + rock edging raised vegetable beds flower garden paths no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •forbs, reeds/grasses *minimal canopy (<20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •ferns, forbs, reeds/grasses *moderate canopy (>20 trees) no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •ferns *moderate canopy (~20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •lawn area, edible plants, forbs *moderate canopy (~20 trees) no •forbs •grasses •edible plants *no canopy (0 trees) Ulrika A. Stigsdotter + Patrik Grahn (2001) Hoichi Kurisu / Kurisu LLC (2019) koi pond dry stone garden walking path GreenHouse Garden Program Participants (1997) Insight Garden Program Participants + Beth Waitkus (2002) built elements + furnishings vegetation garden program + objectives location precedent designer greenhouse Nelson Mandela Children s̓ Hospital Johannesburg, South Africa Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Alnarp, Sweden Oregon State Penitentiary Salem, Oregon Riker s̓ Island Jail Complex New York City, New York San Quentin Rehabilitation Center San Quentin, California ������������ ���������������������������� �������������� ������� �������� �������� �� � ��������� GREENinc (2016) water garden benches privacy screens/art pond gazebo walking path gazebo seating paths + rock edging raised vegetable beds flower garden paths no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •forbs, reeds/grasses *minimal canopy (<20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •ferns, forbs, reeds/grasses *moderate canopy (>20 trees) no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •ferns *moderate canopy (~20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •lawn area, edible plants, forbs *moderate canopy (~20 trees) no •forbs •grasses •edible plants *no canopy (0 trees) Ulrika A. Stigsdotter + Patrik Grahn (2001) Hoichi Kurisu / Kurisu LLC (2019) koi pond dry stone garden walking path GreenHouse Garden Program Participants (1997) Insight Garden Program Participants + Beth Waitkus (2002) built elements + furnishings vegetation garden program + objectives location precedent designer greenhouse Nelson Mandela Children s̓ Hospital Johannesburg, South Africa Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Alnarp, Sweden Oregon State Penitentiary Salem, Oregon Riker s̓ Island Jail Complex New York City, New York San Quentin Rehabilitation Center San Quentin, California ������������ ���������������������������� �������������� ������� �������� �������� �� � ��������� GREENinc (2016) water garden benches privacy screens/art pond gazebo walking path gazebo seating paths + rock edging raised vegetable beds flower garden paths no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •forbs, reeds/grasses *minimal canopy (<20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •ferns, forbs, reeds/grasses *moderate canopy (>20 trees) no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •ferns *moderate canopy (~20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •lawn area, edible plants, forbs *moderate canopy (~20 trees) no •forbs •grasses •edible plants *no canopy (0 trees) Ulrika A. Stigsdotter + Patrik Grahn (2001) Hoichi Kurisu / Kurisu LLC (2019) koi pond dry stone garden walking path GreenHouse Garden Program Participants (1997) Insight Garden Program Participants + Beth Waitkus (2002) built elements + furnishings vegetation garden program + objectives location precedent designer greenhouse Nelson Mandela Children s̓ Hospital Johannesburg, South Africa Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Alnarp, Sweden Oregon State Penitentiary Salem, Oregon Riker s̓ Island Jail Complex New York City, New York San Quentin Rehabilitation Center San Quentin, California ������������ ���������������������������� �������������� ������� �������� �������� �� � ��������� GREENinc (2016) water garden benches privacy screens/art pond gazebo walking path gazebo seating paths + rock edging raised vegetable beds flower garden paths no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •forbs, reeds/grasses *minimal canopy (<20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •ferns, forbs, reeds/grasses *moderate canopy (>20 trees) no •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •ferns *moderate canopy (~20 trees) yes •trees (evergreen + deciduous) •flowering shrubs •lawn area, edible plants, forbs *moderate canopy (~20 trees) no •forbs •grasses •edible plants *no canopy (0 trees) Ulrika A. Stigsdotter + Patrik Grahn (2001) Hoichi Kurisu / Kurisu LLC (2019) koi pond dry stone garden walking path GreenHouse Garden Program Participants (1997) Insight Garden Program Participants + Beth Waitkus (2002) built elements + furnishings vegetation garden program + objectives location precedent designer greenhouse Nelson Mandela Children s̓ Hospital Johannesburg, South Africa Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences Alnarp, Sweden Oregon State Penitentiary Salem, Oregon Riker s̓ Island Jail Complex New York City, New York San Quentin Rehabilitation Center San Quentin, California restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritioncomfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways Findings Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways • balance privacy and security • design for social interaction • water features (fountain, water garden) • wildlife habitat (bird baths, pollinator plants) • trees • greenhouse • curvilinear walking paths • open/flexible garden spaces • edible plantings • multi-level sensory experience • home-like environment • temporal cues (sundial, plantings) • dry stone garden (interactive) • seasonal interest • shade • variety of garden rooms (social and private) • comfortable seating (reclining, cushions) • tables comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways Findings from the precedent study show many overlaps between prison gardens and healing gardens, such as the goal of providing nature contact in a safe, outdoor setting. Where these areas diverge is that the selected prison gardens tend to prioritize edible gardening, and are more often characterized by informal or impermanent plantings. On the other hand, the healing gardens selected for study prioritized comfort, and are more often characterized by permanent or formal garden features (such as waterfalls or hardscape paths). Significance Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens site design for CCCF builds on the emerging category of prison healing gardens combines landscape qualities and programmatic objectives found in both prison gardens and healing gardens Epstein (2024) Engagement Background Methods Findings Because the selected design site falls within a prison setting, highly specific design constraints and user needs must be considered as part of the site analysis. Site analysis required: direct engagement with transitional unit residents and CCCF staff • interviews • group discussion (design feedback) observational study of the site • field notes • photos Data collection August 2024 — April 2025: site visits (6) Gathered qualitative data • existing site conditions • site-specific design constraints • user needs and preferences Background Epstein (2025) Epstein (2025) Direct engagement methods 1. Conversations with CCCF staff 2. Semi-structured, one-on-one interviews with transitional unit residents ~ 40% of current residents participated (8 out of 21) 3. Group discussion / preliminary concept design feedback ~ 70% of current residents participated (15 out of 21) included new and returning participants Example questions used for one-on-one interviews included: • How would you like to use the space in the future, and how do you think others might like to use this space in the future? • Are there any plants you would be excited to see included in the design? (i.e. specific colors, smells, tastes, or textures) • What kinds of furniture would you like to be able to use in the space? (i.e. communal/private seating, nighttime lighting, etc.) Methods Epstein (2024) Methods Analysis 1. Organized interview data by topic: • programmatic goals / outdoor activities • plant preferences • sensory engagement • wildlife • materials • furniture + built elements • garden experience / misc. 2. Identified recurring themes + ideas noted frequency of occurence 3. Compared direct engagement findings with therapeutic landscape design guidelines as well as prison garden precedents intersections were used to inform site design Data from interviews generally fell into the following categories: • comfortable furniture • water features • peer mentoring • private areas • puppy program • shade structures • fragrant plantings • coffee with a friend • dry stone garden • growing food • wildlife habitat • playing games • gardening • study space * For a full list of direct engagement findings, see Appendix B Findings Top Priorities variety of seating options sun + shade 4/8 (50%) lounge areas with comfortable furniture 6/8 (75%) Functional Site Elements edible plantings + space to grow garden produce 8/8 (100%) gathering or social spaces 5/8 (63%) areas that feel private + provide personal space 5/8 (63%) Physical Comfort Multisensory Engagement Social Areas + Group Activities Privacy + Decompression accommodate puppy program 5/8 (63%)water features 4/8 (50%) study space 3/8 (38%) invite + observe wildlife 4/8 (50%) gardening opportunities 3/8 (38%) play games lawn + tabletop 3/8 (38%) variety of seating options sun + shade 4/8 (50%) lounge areas with comfortable furniture 6/8 (75%) Functional Site Elements edible plantings + space to grow garden produce 8/8 (100%) gathering or social spaces 5/8 (63%) areas that feel private + provide personal space 5/8 (63%) Physical Comfort Multisensory Engagement Social Areas + Group Activities Privacy + Decompression accommodate puppy program 5/8 (63%)water features 4/8 (50%) study space 3/8 (38%) invite + observe wildlife 4/8 (50%) gardening opportunities 3/8 (38%) play games lawn + tabletop 3/8 (38%) Intersections with Design Guidelines comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways variety of seating options sun + shade 4/8 (50%) lounge areas with comfortable furniture 6/8 (75%) Functional Site Elements edible plantings + space to grow garden produce 8/8 (100%) gathering or social spaces 5/8 (63%) areas that feel private + provide personal space 5/8 (63%) Physical Comfort Multisensory Engagement Social Areas + Group Activities Privacy + Decompression accommodate puppy program 5/8 (63%)water features 4/8 (50%) study space 3/8 (38%) invite + observe wildlife 4/8 (50%) gardening opportunities 3/8 (38%) play games lawn + tabletop 3/8 (38%) comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways + Prison Garden Objectives and Programming restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition Site Design Site Design final Site Overview Site Plan - planting + layout Garden Rooms Plant + Materials Palette Looking west 20’ security fenceemergency vehicle access 25’ wide concrete pad (keep) ( transitional unit windows (priority view) parking lot full sun morning shade afternoon shadefull shade winter wind light pole 2’ clearance Site Overview winter wind above-ground pipeline 2’ clearance fire hydrant 6’ clearance Priorities + Constraints • screen view of the security fence and common courtyard • improve view out of windows • upgrade lawn (uneven + mole problem) • existing dog area to expand • create a more home-like outdoor environment Climate • full exposure to weather • small areas of shade near buildings • Willamette Valley climate - cool, wet winter - warm dry summer transitional unit common courtyard + LettuceGrow programming (existing gardens) secure access existing puppy training area Epstein (2025) existing dog training and play enclosure + LP floodlights (poor nighttime ambience) courtyard (needs screening) security fence (needs screening) remove + repurpose water / fire utility valve water / fire utility valve bedroom windows August 2024 January 2025 looking southwest looking south (into design site) looking east looking north looking west Site Plan (planting + overall layout) 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7 30 feet transitional unit shrub-meadow planting (no access) shrub planting (no access) shrub planting (no access) main garden (controlled access) The main garden area provides year-round, controlled outdoor access for residents in the transitional unit. CCCF staff stated that residents will have two hours of outdoor access daily-- once in the morning, and again later in the afternoon. Nighttime access is prohibited, as well as access to the shrub planting areas that surround the main garden. The shrub-meadow planting areas include low-maintenance plant species that provide wildlife habitat as well as visual screening for the security fence and common courtyard area. Site Zoom + Ammenities 12 3 4 5 6 7 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7 15 feet restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathwayscomfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 Lawn Area Patio Covered Gathering Space Perfumed Pergola Quiet Zone A (social) Quiet Zone B (private) Puppy Pocket Park comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways engagement finding restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathwayscomfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways • greenhouse + raised beds • comfortable, semi-private seating • edible plantings + seasonal interest • seating options (sun/shade) • fragrant + edible plant palette • water feature (bubble fountain) • area for puppy training program • visual screening for courtyard • seating (benches) • improved view + seasonal interest • visual screening for fence • moveable furniture • small group seating area • water features (fountain + basin) • visual screening for courtyard • shade cover + sense of enclosure • large group seating area • tables (study + dining space) • private seating area • sense of enclosure • wildlife habitat (birds + pollinators) greenhouse + raised beds seating + tables seating covered seating seating seating seating walking path (6’ wide) raised bed seating raised bed walking path (3’ wide) Applied Therapeutic Garden Design Guidelines comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways Perfumed Pergola + Quiet Zone B • Seating area (small group - seats 8) • Shade structure (options to sit in sun or shade) • Sensory plantings (fragrant, edible, tactile, and visual) • Water features + quiet bubble fountain + water garden) • Wildlife habitat (bird bath and pollinator plantings) • Visual screening for security fence (trees and shrubs) sensory garden + semi-private garden rooms (Summer) dwarf river birch ‘little king’ Betula nigra ‘Little King’ fragrant wintersweet Chimonanthus praecox Manzanita sp. Manzanita sp. medlar Mespilus germanica blue elderberry Sambucus cerulea box-leaf azara Azara microphylla bronze fennel Foeniculum vulgare angel’s fishing rod Dierama pulcherrimum joe pye weed Eutrochium maculatum phoenician mullein Verbascum chaxii kousa dogwood ‘greensleeves’ Cornus kousa ‘Greensleeves’ star jasmine Trachelospermum jasminoides climbing rose ‘Claire Austin’ Rosa molineux ‘Claire Austin’ oak-leaf hydrangea Hydrangea quercifolia wild ginger Asaram caudatum pacific bleeding heart Dicentra formosa sea holly Eryngium sp. artichoke Cynara cardunculus bearded iris Iris x germanica Perfumed Pergola + Quiet Zone B sensory garden + semi-private garden rooms (Summer) restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways engagement finding covered seating comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways decomposed granite path bird bath water garden (stone basin) comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways bubble fountain comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways plantings provide multi-level sensory experience comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition dwarf fruit trees (plum + pomegranate) • Space to grow food + greenhouse + raised beds • Edible perennials (fruit trees, berries, etc.) • Lounge area (small group - seats 6) + cushions for seating + patio umbrella • Improved lawn (fleur de lawn - waterwise seed mix) • Space to play games (lawn and tabletop) • Visual screening for security fence (small trees and shrubs) Lawn Area edible gardening + social space (Spring) angel’s fishing rod Dierama pulcherrimum pineapple guava Feijoa sellowiana medlar Mespilus germanica eastern redbud Cercis canadensisdwarf fig Ficus carica ‘Little Miss Figgy’ rhubarb Rheum rhabarbarum angel’s fishing rod Dierama pulcherrimum Lawn Area edible gardening + social space (Spring) restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways engagement finding fleur de lawn baby blue eyes, dwarf grass, microclover, strawberry clover, english daisy, sweet alyssum edible plantings (blueberry, grapevine, huckleberry, pomegranate, strawberry) lounge area comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways greenhouse restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition raised beds restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition comfort furniture safety + misc. garden elements planting accessibility pathways restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition Reflection Project Recap Developed a conceptual landscape design for CCCF transitional unit informed by • evidence-based therapeutic landscape design principles • prison garden precedents • findings from direct participant engagement + observational study of the site Future Objectives Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens Prison Gardens Healing Gardens • plant identification and care • garden maintenance • increase access to nature for incarcerated people • improve prison conditions restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition restorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutritionrestorative environment horticultural therapy interdisciplinary research justice + advocacy community service education + vocational training decompression + healing peer support nature contact food production + nutrition Looking forward, this project seeks to support programming activities such as horticultural therapy, education and vocational training, and peer support. An overarching goal of providing these kinds of garden programs is to both improve material conditions, as well as increase access to nature for people incarcerated at this facility. • Further work should investigate potential alternatives to hardscape materials and promote maximum vegetation cover in the puppy program area • More research is needed to explore whether puppy program infrastructure and therapeutic landscape design could be integrated -- or even complement one another Next Steps Works Cited “Coffee Creek Correctional Facility” Wikipedia website. (2025) https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coffee_Creek_Correctional_Facility. Cooper Marcus, Claire & Sachs, Naomi A. (2014) Therapeutic Landscapes: An Evidence-Based Approach to Designing Healing Gardens and Restorative Outdoor Spaces. Hoboken, New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Fisk, I., & Hamilton-Giachritsis, C. (2024)Positive Impacts of Prison-Based Gardening and Horticultural Activities for Previously Incarcerated Individuals. Ecopsychology, 16(2), 107–120. https://doi.org/10.1089/eco.2023.0034. “In-Prison Programs” Land Together website. (2025) https://www.landtogether.org/in-prison-programs Phillips, Michael. Garden Behind the Fence. (n.d.) https://sustainabilityinprisons.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/02/Garden-Behind-the-Fence-complete.pdf. “Rapunzel” Gallerix website. (2025) https://gallerix.org/storeroom/93253652/N/354366885/. Stigsdotter, U. A., & Grahn, P. (2002) What Makes a Garden a Healing Garden? Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 13, 60–69. Ulrich, R. S. (1984) View Through a Window May Influence Recovery from Surgery. Science, 224(4647), 420–421. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.6143402. Van Der Linden, S. (2015) Green prison programmes, recidivism and mental health: A primer. Criminal Behaviour and Mental Health, 25(5), 338–342. https://doi.org/10.1002/ cbm.1978. Yoshimoto, Julia. (2023) A Serious Response to a “Sobering” Reality: OJRC’s response to the Gender Informed Practices Assessment of Coffee Creek Correctional Facility. https://static1. squarespace.com/static/524b5617e4b0b106ced5f067/t/6567ce61f333c240b031f223/1701301857944/2023+GIPA_response+v.23.11.28.pdf. “Alnarp Therapy Gardens” Mens Natuur website. (2019) https://mensnatuur.wordpress.com/2019/04/17/alnarp-therapy-gardens-monday-26th-june-2017/#jp-carousel-977. i. Appendix A: Applied Therapeutic Garden Design Guidelines image: https://mensnatuur.wordpress.com/2019/04/17/alnarp-therapy-gardens-monday-26th-june-2017/#jp-carousel-977 Inventory: Room 1 A4, A6, A10 B4 C9 D1—D3, D5—D7, D9—D10 E1—E4, E7 F7 G3—G6, G8—G9 Room 2 A4, A9—A10 B1, B4—B9 D1—D5, D8 E3—E5 F8—F9 G4—G6 Room 3 A2—A3, A5, A9—A10 B2, B4, B6, B8 C9 D1—D3, D5—D7, D10 E4 G4—G6 Room 4 A4—A8, A10 B2 C9 D2, D5—D6, D10 E1—E7 F1—F4, F6, F8 G3, G4—G6 Room 5 A4— A6, A8, A10 B2 C9 D2, D5—D6, D10 E1—E7 F1—F6, F8 G4—G6 Room 6 A4—A6, A10 C9 D2, D5—D6, D10 E1—E7 F8 G4—G5 Room 7 A2 D2, D6 E1, E4—E5 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7 ii. Appendix B: Applied Engagement Findings Inventory: Room 1 A (interact as group, cornhole, croquet, horseshoes, play games outside) B (get fresh air/go outside, improve + prioritize view out of the windows, sit in the sun) C (gardening, grow fresh food) D (new benches/patio furniture, removable cushions, tables — small) E (fruit trees, berries, fleur de lawn, space to grow produce/herbs/etc.) F (greenhouse, lounge area, raised garden beds, sand+rock garden, solar lights, vertical planters) G (feels like a backyard, vegetable smells, wood furniture) Room 2 A (barbequing/group meals outside) B (improve + prioritize view out of the windows, sit in the sun, watch change of seasons) D (adirondack chairs/lounge chairs — moveable furniture, patio feeling — no plastic or concrete) E (herbs) F (hanging planters, lounge area, raised garden beds, solar lights, vertical planters — trellis) G (feels like a backyard, wood furniture) Room 3 A (have coffee with a friend, group meals outside, interact as a group, play boardgames/cards) B (crafts, improve + prioritize view out of the windows) C (homework / tutoring) D (seating, patio feeling — no plastic or concrete, tables) E (grasses) F (covered area/shade, outside dining aea, raised garden beds, solar lights) G (feels like a backyard, wood furniture) Room 4 A (have a cup of coffee with a friend, interact as a group) B (calming/healing, decompressing, get fresh air/away from institution, pray/meditate, sit in the sun) C (homework / tutoring, gardening—plant care/maintenance) D (benches, lounge chairs) E (fruit trees, jasmine, roses, shrubs) F (art/sculpture, bird feeders + bird baths, lounge area, shade structure, water feature—quiet bubble) G (floral smells, sound of water, wood furniture, attract / observe wildlife) Room 5 A (have a cup of coffee with a friend, interact as a group) B (calming/healing, decompressing, get fresh air/away from institution, pray/meditate) C (homework / tutoring, gardening—plant care/maintenance) D (benches) E (berries—blueberry, thimbleberry, huckleberry, shrubs) F (water feature—quiet bubble + water garden) G (sound of water, wood furniture, attract / observe wildlife) Room 6 A (have a cup of coffee with a friend) B (calming/healing, decompressing, get away from institution, have a moment away from others/ privacy, pray/meditate, sit in the sun) C (homework / tutoring, gardening—plant care/maintenance) D (bench/chaise/lounge chair) E (shrubs) F (bird bath, lounge area, private seating, walking path—natural rock stepping stones) G (floral smells, wood furniture, attract / observe wildlife) Room 7 C (puppy program) D (benches) 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7 30 feet N 12 3 4 5 6 7