The Birmingham VA Medical Clinic Respite Garden was designed to create a therapeutic outdoor space that met the needs stated by the Director and the requirements set forth by the VA and LEED Healthcare design manuals. The Respite Garden provides a place for individuals or families looking to separate themselves from the often taxing environment inside the clinic and connect with the natural environment. Views through the windows provide for those in patient rooms as well as in seating areas to have the opportunity to benefit from exposure to the garden. For employees, a separate space provides an opportunity to relax and relieve stress. The opportunity for staff to relax in the garden increases productivity and reduces medical error. Both benefits are documented in multiple case studies on exposure to nature in the healthcare environment.