Calgary is the first city in Alberta and only the sixth in North America to open a hospice and respite care centre for children. Rotary/Flames House has opened its doors right next door to the Alberta Children’s Hospital.

The $12.5-million Rotary/Flames House, officially opened in October 2009, is modelled after a typical two-storey home and features 11 bedrooms and two family suites. To ensure the facility would meet the needs of those who will be using it the planning team included families in the design process.

Harris & Harris worked as part of the design team throughout the project. The scope of work included integrating the building and landscape program onto a small irregular site. Site elements included an accessible play area, a 2.0m retaining wall that extends the length of the facility, a contemplation garden, and outdoor kitchen. All of the facilities were designed to be accessible. The design intent for the garden was to make all of the families using the facilities feel at home. The design is whimsical and safe.