The Stollmeyer Family Birthing Center at Dignity Health’s French Hospital Medical Center received licensing approval last Wednesday and is preparing to open for service in the coming weeks. This is Phase I of an overall 10,800 sq. ft. expansion plan designed by San Luis Obispo architecture firm, Studio Design Group Architects.

The Phase I addition includes one of eight new birthing suites, two semi-private patient rooms, delivery room and Cesarean operating suite developed with the latest advancements in medical and energy saving technology. New features also include a lounge for care providers and a centrally located nursing station to enable continuous care for moms and newborns alike.

Project architect Ellen Goodwin contributed her personal perspective to the design and shared, “While working on the project I was able to draw from my own experience of delivering two children at French. The end result is a welcoming and comfortable space for expectant parents and healthcare providers—one that I would want for myself. I’m excited to see how new moms in the community respond.”

Focused on family-centered care, the Stollmeyer Family Birthing Center is the only Central Coast hospital recognized as a Baby-Friendly Hospital by a global initiative from the World Health Organization and the United Nations Children’s Fund. It is one of only 146 hospitals and birth centers in the United States to earn this recognition.