A More Welcoming CMU
Partnering to Improve the Coulter Welcome Center through a Fusion of Design Disciplines
School of Design
written by
Joe Lyons
In summer 2024, School of Design faculty members Haeyoung Kim and Daphne Peters and a student/alum trio comprised of Felix Cooper (BDes 2025), Helen Zhang (BDes 2025) and Hannah Lesser (BDes 2024) collaborated on a redesign of the Coulter Welcome Center.
The project — which represents an exciting new partnership between the Joseph Ballay Center for Design Fusion, the School of Design, the Office of the Provost, University Communications and Marketing, and Enrollment Management — seeks to strategically improve key aspects of the campus experience.
The newly designed Coulter Welcome Center represents a unique blending of faculty expertise, uniting their diverse talents in environmental design, graphic design, interaction design, industrial design, service design and architecture to create the ultimate visitor experience. The collaborative approach also reinforces principles of “welcoming” that are applicable across many areas and programs at CMU.
Welcome Desk
Enjoy a warm welcome and clear check-in point.
University Store Merchandise Display
Imagine yourself as a Tartan! Be inspired by CMU-branded merchandise from the campus store.
New Seating Layout
Locate places to rest, as well as opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Activity Wall
View on-screen content in three key categories: information, exploration and entertainment; and explore CMU's "Booth” — a highlight of Spring Carnival.
Fence Kiosk
Delight with every click of a button! Experience the Random Fence Generator (a CMU Tradition) and its role as a place for student expression.
Student Work Display
Explore how maker facilities support the creation of student work.
Student Organizations Spinners
Discover student life beyond academics by spinning triangles that reveal the names of student clubs and organizations.
featuring the following:
student work from Felix Cooper, Helen Zhang and Hanna Lesser
images and video from Joe Lyons
images from University Communications & Marketing
