A Therapeutic Landscape Design for Chrysalis House

Abstract

This project explores the design of therapeutic landscapes for Chrysalis House, a nonprofit residential treatment center in Crownsville, Maryland, that supports women recovering from substance use and their children. Developed by students in the University of Maryland’s Landscape Architecture program in Spring 2025, the project focused on applying principles of therapeutic landscapes and trauma-informed design to create an outdoor space that supports mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Students conducted site analyses, developed conceptual designs, and produced final landscape plans, sections, and perspective renderings. Design considerations included accessible pathways, varied seating areas, spaces for gathering and privacy, and a vegetable garden to be maintained by FarmUnity, a local nonprofit focused on sustainable agriculture and community food access.