University of Charleston Innovation Center
The Russell & Martha Wehrle Innovation Center and The H. Bernard Wehrle, Sr. Athletic Arena was designed as a renovation of the existing gymnasium with the addition of an innovation center. The new facility houses over 70,000 square foot on the owner’s campus and marries the old facility with the new addition, while remaining true to its heritage and blending within the fabric of the campus. The original gym, completed in 1947, posed many challenges to the design and construction teams in order to bring the 70 year old building up-to-date while incorporating it into a modern building to be used for many years to come.
PROJECT DETAILS
- Location: Charleston, West Virginia
- Type: Renovation
- Size: 70,000 SF
- Contractor: BBL Carlton LLC
PROJECT SERVICES
- Architecture
- BIM
- Construction Administration
- Project Management
Our Process
The Innovation Center has become a prestigious gathering place for both students and the community.
The program for this dramatic addition to the current gymnasium includes a large, two story atrium, a hall of fame, concessions, an innovation hub featuring exhibit space, meeting rooms, classrooms, and team work space, athletic training facilities and locker rooms, conference rooms, a Presidential Suite, video rooms, and offices. The Innovation Center has become a prestigious gathering place for both students and the community. The University of Charleston has always been open to the community and this center epitomizes their commitment to the community.
In keeping with the focus of the building and the owner’s mission, every part of the building is equipped with cutting edge technology to enhance both the student’s innovation and imagination while providing visitors with a stunning experience. In addition, the project truly captures the owner’s focus to be a leader in innovation while remaining a great steward of the resources granted to them.
