Northwell’s Phelps Hospital Celebrates Grand Opening of New Serenity Garden

Congratulations to Northwell’s Phelps Hospital on the recent grand opening of its new Serenity Garden, a transformative, therapeutic space designed to support mental health, wellness and rejuvenation for patients, visitors and staff. More than just a garden, it reflects the hospital’s profound commitment to holistic healing, providing a tranquil oasis on its 69-acre campus.

The $360,000 donor-funded project is the third installment in BCW Member Phelps’ innovative FARMacy program, a series of green spaces promoting healing through nature. Situated next to the hospital’s main entrance, the Serenity Garden features a pavilion with a slatted roof that adjusts to sunlight and airflow, alongside a calming water feature, comfortable benches and ambient lighting. Designed by specialists in therapeutic gardens, it thoughtfully incorporates plants native to the area and uses environmentally conscious porous paving, creating an immersive and peaceful retreat.

“Healing gardens in health care settings are a tradition that goes back centuries, and we are incredibly fortunate to have such a beautiful campus at Phelps that makes spaces like this possible,” said Jill Scibilia, Vice President, Foundation at Phelps Hospital.

Among those attending the grand opening ceremony were New York State Senate Majority Leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins and Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins.

“At a time when mental health challenges are around and touching in every community, Phelps is leading the way and showing what compassionate action looks like,” Jenkins said. “We know healing comes in many forms. Sometimes it’s a peaceful meditation, a walk along the garden path, or a chance to just take a deep breath in a place that feels safe and welcome. And that’s what the Serenity Garden will offer to patients, families, and staff.”

The Serenity Garden underscores Phelps’ core values by offering a vital connection to nature for patients facing behavioral health challenges. It complements traditional care, providing a calming space for participants in Phelps’ 28-day rehabilitation program. Inpatient and outpatient behavioral health teams collaborated with facilities, engineering, project management and development staff to ensure the garden would meet the needs of both patients and community members.

“This Serenity Garden is a profound embodiment of our commitment at Phelps Hospital to comprehensive well-being,” said Beata Mastalerz, DNP, RN, President of Phelps Hospital. “We firmly believe that true health integrates mind, body and spirit, and this beautiful space allows us to extend healing beyond our hospital walls, offering a vital sanctuary for our patients, staff and community.”