Matthew's House Healing Garden | Abbotsford, BC

Completed in 2014, this waterfall and pond were created as part of the healing garden at Matthew's House in Abbotsford, a respite care home that provides specialized care for children and youth living with complex medical needs while offering much-needed support and rest for their families. Matthew's House was established to provide a safe, welcoming environment where families can recharge, knowing their child is receiving exceptional care.

Designed as a quiet retreat within the garden, the water feature was intended to bring a sense of calm, comfort, and connection to nature for both children and their families. The sound of moving water creates a peaceful backdrop for moments of reflection, conversation, or simply a brief escape from the challenges that often accompany complex medical care.

For parents carrying the emotional and physical demands of caring for a child with significant health needs, even a few quiet moments beside a pond can provide a chance to breathe, reflect, and recharge. For children, the movement of water, visiting birds, changing reflections, and natural surroundings create opportunities for curiosity, engagement, and joy.

More than a landscape feature, this project was an opportunity to contribute to a space dedicated to compassion, support, and healing for families from across British Columbia.