A trip to the hospital can feel scary for a child. That’s why the team at the Bill & Olivia Amos Children’s Hospital in Columbus, Georgia, set out to create a treatment space that feels a little less intimidating and a lot more inviting.
The newly themed fifth-floor treatment rooms now welcome children into “Otto’s Den,” a cozy underwater-inspired hideaway where Otto the Otter and his family help turn a stressful moment into something a little more comforting and a lot more fun.
From the moment patients step into the room, they’re surrounded by playful scenery, hand-carved details, and larger-than-life characters designed to spark imagination and curiosity. Otto joins other local wildlife friends, in creating spaces filled with warmth, personality, and friendly faces.
The goal was simple: create an environment that helps children focus less on medical procedures and more on the world around them.
One of the most special parts of the space is how interactive it feels. Whimsical sculpted picture frames in the rooms can display artwork created by patients, giving kids a chance to see their creativity become part of the environment.
Children can also write letters to the otters and receive replies from hospital team members, adding another playful touch that keeps the experience personal and engaging.
The finished rooms blend storytelling, texture, and colorful scenic elements to create a cheerful escape within the hospital. More than just a themed environment, Otto’s Den was designed to help young patients feel welcomed, distracted, and supported during their time at the hospital.
Sometimes a friendly otter family, a cozy den, and a little imagination can make all the difference.
Dreaming of a space like this?
Wacky World Studios specializes in creating immersive environments that inspire kids to explore, imagine, and learn. From sculpted storybook trees to full-scale themed rooms, we can bring your space to life!
This article was co-written with human creatives and AI tools. Photo/video credits: Piedmont Columbus Regional Hospital.