Outdoor Memorial Giving Display
Hoag Hospital has long recognized the importance of creating spaces that support not only physical healing but also emotional connection and remembrance. The Lucy Curci Memorial Garden reflects that commitment by providing a serene setting where patients, families, and visitors can honor loved ones and find comfort through a thoughtfully designed outdoor memorial donor recognition experience.
To enhance this meaningful space, Hoag Hospital Foundation collaborated with landscape architects Bill Rabben and Amy Kim of Rabben/Herman and Partners In Recognition to create a display that honors memorial gifts while blending naturally into the redesigned garden environment.
A Memorial Display Designed Around the Garden Experience
As part of the Lucy Curci Memorial Garden’s transformation, Hoag sought a recognition solution that would become an extension of the landscape rather than the primary focal point of the space. The team designed the display to recognize donors in a meaningful way while preserving the peaceful atmosphere of the garden.
The completed outdoor freestanding display spans approximately 35 feet along the garden’s edge. It integrates seamlessly with surrounding pathways, benches, trees, and plantings. Soft blue-toned translucent panels complement Hoag’s architecture and reflect the sky and calming qualities of water.
Additionally, the display incorporates minimal stainless-steel framing and concealed structural elements that create a floating appearance. Intentional spacing between the panels allows views of the landscaping beyond the display. As a result, the recognition feature maintains a strong connection to the natural environment.
A corresponding freestanding dimensional letter sign identifies the Lucy Curci Memorial Garden. It extends the same materials, colors, and architectural language found throughout the donor recognition display.
A Floating Design that Complements the Landscape
To preserve the peaceful atmosphere of the Lucy Curci Memorial Garden, Partners In Recognition designed the memorial recognition display with a light architectural appearance. The Stand-Off System creates floating translucent panels that provide recognition without overwhelming the surrounding environment.
Minimal stainless-steel hardware mounts the panels away from the supporting structure, creating depth and allowing subtle views of the landscape beyond. Meanwhile, the blue-toned acrylic panels provide soft color and light diffusion while complementing Hoag’s architecture and the natural qualities of the garden.
This approach creates an outdoor memorial donor recognition experience that feels integrated into the landscape rather than separate from it. Durable materials and thoughtful engineering ensure the display continues honoring memorial gifts while maintaining its clean, timeless appearance.
Soft Lighting for Day and Evening Reflection
The Lucy Curci Memorial Garden provides comfort throughout the day and into the evening. Therefore, thoughtful illumination became an essential component of the overall design.
Integrated LED lighting improves visibility after dark while preserving the quiet atmosphere of the garden. The lighting softly highlights donor names and meaningful quotations without creating harsh brightness. In addition, concealed electrical components and minimal hardware maintain the simplicity of the design and keep attention focused on the garden experience.
A Lasting Tribute to Generosity and Memory
The Lucy Curci Memorial Garden demonstrates how donor recognition can become a meaningful part of a larger healing environment. Rather than standing apart from the landscape, the display works alongside the architecture, natural elements, and pathways to create a place for reflection and remembrance.
Through the collaboration between Hoag Hospital Foundation, Rabben/Herman landscape architects, and Partners In Recognition, the completed display honors those remembered and supports the Foundation’s ongoing memorial giving program. The combination of durable outdoor materials, the Stand-Off System, integrated lighting, and landscape-inspired design ensures the garden will continue to provide comfort and recognition for generations to come.
For additional donor recognition inspiration, explore the Partners In Recognition Gallery.