A bright start to the new wing at Canberra's state-of-the-art kids' hospital. - ABC Local

Hospitals aren't built for fun. But Canberra's newest hospital provides plenty of opportunities for fun when children most need it, alongside modern medical facilities to ensure they get the best care.

Light, airy spaces, bright colours, wide corridors, lots of (childproof) glass and outdoor courtyards feature in Stage Two of the new women and children's section at Canberra Hospital, which is a major refurbishment of the former maternity wing.

New playground

A highlight is the new indoor-outdoor playground, a gift from the George Gregan Foundation that was designed with the help of children themselves.

"They said they wanted to have African animals and indigenous animals and that's what they've got," says Liz Chatham, Executive Director of the Women, Youth and Children's Division of Canberra Hospital. "And they wanted to forget they're at a hospital."

Another courtyard has been transformed into a therapeutic garden that can be accessed from the rehabilitation gym and the hospital school.

Glass art

Stunning artwork has also been incorporated, including Microscopia - a large-scale glass and coloured light installation by Warren Langley that was commissioned by the ACT Government for display in the Australian Pavilion at the 2010 Shanghai World Expo.

"We try to make the place welcoming and somewhere that's comfortable," says Michael Goiser, Communications Manager at ACT Health's Redevelopment Unit. "Brightly coloured artwork really detracts from what you're here for and hopefully, to be able to look at some artwork, is going to help with that therapeutic process."

Birthing

Upstairs, 13 new birthing suites have just been opened, each with a huge round bath, double-headed shower, extra couch and windows that can be opened for fresh air. They overlook the children's playground and two have balconies.

New technology includes a resuscitation unit tucked away on a wall out of sight.

"It's hidden away," explains the midwife-in-charge Emmalee Hamilton. "But everything that the baby needs if it does need resuscitation is within reach."

The new wing also includes the Angel Room that provides extra privacy and room for families who've lost a baby.

"This is a really nice area for families in their time of need, "says Emmaleee. "It's got a special lounge area where families and visitor can come and spend some time with the baby if needed."

New home

The new wing is already busy - children wait with parents in the paediatric outpatients clinic, women and their partners attend an ante-natal class in the new Family Room while soon-to-be mothers stroll around the birthing suite.

As patients find their way around the new facility, staff are delighted it's finally open.

"It's been brilliant so far," smiles Emmallee, glancing down at her ringing beeper. "It's just really nice to be in our home now."

Stage One of the Centenary Women and Children's Hospital, a new building, opened in 2012 The total cost of the project is $111.06 million.