SCPRT Fort Mill Welcome Center

The new South Carolina Welcome Center is a replacement of an existing structure on I-77 entering the state from Charlotte NC. Conceptualized as the front porch of the state, the design challenge was to offer a respite for the weary traveler, infused with references to local and state culture. The building design is a part of the story of a progressive state, providing insight about its rich history and bright future, vibrant business environment and abundance of natural resources. Welcome Centers are typically quick stops, and then back on the road. But the client’s vision was to welcome visitors to “sit and stay a while” in a clean and warm structure, with porch swings, comfortable seating and a grand lobby that’s airy and filled with light. Furthermore, the design team was challenged to incorporate building products indigenous to the state. The visual pattern of exterior brick is inspired by local Catawba pottery, known for beautiful colors and patterns derived directly from the local soils. A flexible, adaptable lobby with mobile furnishings and integrated technology-based interfaces supports the customer service design piloted by South Carolina Department of Parks, Recreation & Tourism for its new Welcome Centers.