WVU Visitor Center Renovation

2026-11-03

The purpose of this project is to evaluate , reimagine , and transform the WVU Visitor Center into a state - of - the - art “ Welcome Center ” that aligns with contemporary best practices in university recruitment , visitor engagement , and institutional branding . The selected Proposer will assess the existing facility ’ s layout , function , and aesthetic , benchmarking against leading institutions within the Big 12 , peer institutions , and nationwide . The project could potentially explore opportunities for expanding into adjacent areas of One Waterfront Place — and possibly encompassing the entire first floor , totaling approximately 21 , 000 square feet — if programming analysis and benchmarking of comparable universities of similar size and region demonstrate the need for additional space . Your Proposal shall be based on the existing layout . If an expansion beyond the existing footprint is pursued , the project will include the relocation of current first - floor occupants to other areas within the building . Any required renovations or modifications to accommodate these relocated units will be incorporated into the overall project scope and planning efforts . The “ Welcome Center ” design should enhance flexibility , technology integration , and the overall visitor experience while creating a welcoming environment that authentically reflects the spirit , story , culture , and identity of West Virginia University . The overarching goal is to deliver a comprehensive design and construction solution that repositions the Visitor Center from a traditional information space to a dynamic , high - impact gateway that celebrates WVU ’ s academic excellence , Mountaineer pride , and sense of place . In support of these objectives , the design should address the following key planning and experiential priorities : • Connected Spaces : Integrate the current office suite across the hallway as a visually connected but private area for confidential meetings with prospective students and families . • Flexible Meeting & Event Space : Design spaces that can adapt to small or mid - scale gatherings with movable partitions and furniture . • Theater Enhancements : Evaluate relocating the theater or improving sound isolation from the reception area ; increase capacity to approximately 112 guests with movable seating and immersive audiovisual capability . • Outdoor Patio Integration : Connect the patio as an extension of indoor programming . • Restroom Upgrades : Modernize and expand to accommodate higher visitor traffic . • Technology & Lighting : Replace the main lobby video board , update lighting and controls , and integrate interactive yet low - tech storytelling displays . • Wayfinding : Improve garage and building signage to clearly direct visitors . • Reception Desk : Redesign or relocate the reception area to enhance visibility and code compliance . • OWP Lobby Updates : Coordinate lobby upgrades so that the shared entry reads as part of the Welcome Center brand while meeting building needs . • Catering Kitchen & Storage : Plan for an event - support kitchen and storage . • Brand & Spirit : Celebrate WVU ’ s “ Ra - Ra ” energy , R1 status , and academic reputation through compelling graphics , materials , and storytelling . • Campus Map & Interactive Elements : Provide intuitive and engaging tools to help guests navigate campus , incorporating simple , user - friendly digital features such as QR codes or self - guided media while avoiding overreliance on complex technology . • PRT Car Display : Retain the iconic PRT car as a signature feature . • Overall Experience : Deliver a “ wow ” factor consistent with top - tier university welcome centers .

West Virginia

2026-05-02