Whilst it is easier to find supporters of homeopathic medicine now, the reality is that chemical drugs are still more widely used. However, centuries ago, the only drugs available were plants and herbs grown in gardens, which were the only source for new remedies and treatments.
The pharmaceutical company Novartis, in its new campus in Basel, has given new life to this age-old and effective practice, creating a medieval-style garden of medicinal plants with a contemporary and modern design. A strong and unexpected move, which seems to go against the tide considering the billions of pounds invested in the Research and Development laboratories, but perhaps the road taken is the right one.
The project has been entrusted to the landscape architect Thorbjörn Andersson and the engineering company Sweco. The objective was to create a well cared for and well laid out garden of medicinal plants where Novartis scientists could take a break from work and go for a walk, rediscovering the beauty and harmony of the plants and possibly finding inspiration for the next innovative development. It is impossible to deny that the greatest human innovations often come from observing and staying in touch with nature: Newton’s famous apple is just one example.
Thorbjörn Andersson and the engineering company Sweco have resolved the question in the best possible way, putting technology to work in the garden to ensure the best conditions for the plants and its visitors. The garden bed is divided into various sections, crossed by a number of bridges overlooking the plants and flowers, which change with the seasons. The botanical mix includes seventy species of plants and herbs, with orange marigolds and purple irises flowering in the summer months offering a real feast for the eyes and soul. A garden in which to treat and be treated.