The site at the west end of North Terrace on the former rail yards connects the western parkland belt to the River Torrens. The design philosophy, ‘Park within a hospital, hospital within a park’, stems from this clear geographic link, incorporating scientific research that demonstrates the increased rate of healing and wellbeing of patients that are connected to the natural world.
The "park within the hospital" incorporates 75 internal courtyards, sky-gardens and balconies that provide patients and staff with a variety of areas for respite,refreshment, physical therapy, quiet contemplation and lively places to socialise.
Extensive public plazas, gardens and parklands wrap around the building, forming a vital urban park that is open and connected to the city. The main East Plaza has the capacity to hold large public events as well as providing intimate spaces for passive recreation. Construction commenced in 2011 with the hospital being opened in 2017.