RMHC MEMORIAL AND GARDEN
Lubbock, Texas | Civic
The Ronald McDonald House Charities of the Southwest sought to create a space of respite, joy, and remembrance for families staying at their Lubbock location. Surrounded by University Medical Center, Marsha Sharpe Freeway, and Texas Tech University, open space is scarce, making outdoor access crucial for families seeking a moment of peace or a place for children to play.
A looping path weaves through the site, linking gardens, play areas, and a memorial seamlessly into the landscape. Curved steel walls emerge from the earth, gradually forming the memorial wall, where families can reflect along a gently meandering path. Benches offer places to pause and find solace.
The memorial wall bursts with vibrant butterflies soaring into the vast West Texas sky—each representing a child’s journey, whether lost or saved. Families select butterfly colors, drawn from hues that naturally attract butterflies. A gateway in the wall leads to the butterfly garden, encircled by pollinator-filled berms. At its heart, a mass of butterfly weed supports a striking Monarch sculpture, honoring the species’ seasonal migration through the region. Outdoor musical instruments invite children to engage, fostering connection and shared moments of joy.
This project redefines memorials—blending remembrance with life, loss with hope—creating a space that nurtures reflection, resilience, and renewal.
Project Team | Blane Potts, PLA, ASLA, CLARB
Probono work initially completed while employed with Parkhill – Final design and renderings by Potts Design Group LLC