Heather Hancock

Project Overview

TERRAIN 01 is the first realized installation from the Biophilic Collection, a series exploring the organizing patterns of natural landscapes through layered glass, concrete texture, and architectural rhythm.

Rather than depicting a specific place, the work abstracts growth, flow, and clustered vegetation into a visual language designed to bring moments of calm and connection to healthcare environments.

Context

The project was commissioned for a cancer care waiting area, where the artwork needed to support a quiet, restorative atmosphere while integrating with the surrounding architecture.

An early concept drawing established the underlying composition and visual vocabulary. During design development, the artwork evolved through collaboration with the art consultant to reflect the project's goals, palette, and viewing conditions.

Approach

The Biophilic Collection is built around a shared design language rather than repeatable images.

For TERRAIN 01, the composition was refined by increasing the density and distribution of vegetation forms while adjusting the color relationships to complement the interior environment. Although the final installation differs from the original concept, both are grounded in the same underlying framework of linear structure, layered rhythm, and clustered organic forms.

Each commission is developed specifically for its architectural setting while maintaining a cohesive visual vocabulary.

Outcome

The completed triptych creates a continuous landscape that unfolds across three panels, introducing texture, color, and subtle movement into the waiting area without overwhelming the space.

As the first completed Biophilic Collection installation, TERRAIN 01 established the design principles that continue to guide future commissions—demonstrating how a consistent visual language can produce original, site-responsive artwork for each project.

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