What's a 'Berm'?

A berm is defined by Merriam Webster as “a narrow shelf, path, or ledge typically at the top or bottom of a slope; also: a mound or wall of earth or sand”. In landscaping terms, it is a technique used to create interest or privacy or to act as a noise barrier between highways and residential neighbourhoods. A berm was incorporated into the plans for the Alderwood Long Term Care Facility in Baddeck, Nova Scotia. It is approximately 150 metres long by 10 metres high and runs parallel to the highway, approximately 50 metres away from the site.

The Alderwood berm was a great innovation from environmental perspective for multiple reasons. Through the reuse of earthworks on site over 1100 truckloads were diverted from landfill, thereby reducing CO² emissions through the elimination of the 30-minute round trips from the site.

Alderwood residents, staff and visitors benefit from the acoustic (approximately 50% reduction in traffic noise) and visual barrier between the facility and the highway. The berm has reduced the traffic noise to within the recommended range of sound levels for this type of residential facility and landscaping gives it the appearance of a natural hill which is more visually appealing than the busy highway.

The Meadows

The Meadows TVM is a 105 bed nursing care facility in Yarmouth, Nova Scotia.

Design and construction of this large facility emphasizes durability and functionality without comprising comfort, accessibility or resident well-being.

Home-like, residential-scale ‘houses’ are complemented by larger public-scaled spaces with amenities and group activity rooms. Year-round views and access to beautifully landscaped courtyards are provided from residential houses and multi-purpose areas using large picture windows and sophisticated door hardware systems.

Successful design features of the Meadows TVM include the open-concept kitchen/dining/living rooms in resident houses which provide good visibility for staff and residents while maintaining a residential scale; enhanced wayfinding; and a unique sense of place which is achieved by incorporating Nova Scotia art pieces throughout the facility.