Project: Staff Wellbeing Courtyard at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh

The staff Wellbeing Courtyard was created to give staff access to the outdoors whilst giving them a peaceful and tranquil place to take a break and get some fresh air.

We’re excited to share that the Staff Wellbeing Courtyard, located just off the OPD6 corridor at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh (RIE), officially opened on 22nd September. This beautifully reimagined space is designed to support staff wellbeing by bringing nature closer to the workplace.

A Natural Retreat in the Heart of the Hospital

Recognising that many staff members don’t have the time to explore the nearby landscapes of Little France Park or Craigmillar Castle, the courtyard was envisioned as a woodland garden oasis a peaceful, restorative space that reflects the wider natural environment.

The design retains the existing hard landscaping while introducing lush planting, natural materials, and flexible furniture to create a space that feels both grounded and alive. Whether you’re grabbing a quiet moment alone, catching up with a colleague, or attending a wellbeing session, the courtyard offers a setting that adapts to your needs.

Designed for Comfort, All Year Round

The courtyard is open daily from 8am to 8pm, and every detail has been considered to ensure it’s welcoming in all seasons:

Sheltered areas protect from sun and rain
Timber seating avoids the discomfort of hot or cold metal
Night-scented and seasonal plants like Daphne and Hamamelis provide year-round sensory interest
Flexible seating zones accommodate everything from solo reflection to group gatherings

Split up into three distinct zones: Social, Transitional, and Calm/Rest to allow staff to choose the environment that best suits their mood or activity. We commissioned Hinterland Studio to help us bring this vision to life.