“Experiencing historical landmarks through design has the ability to bring a sense of community and unity to all visitors. This was central to the design challenge behind the Ralph C. Wilson, Jr. Welcome Center: meet the needs of over nine million visitors from all over the world in a space that complements one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural landscapes. The new visitor center provides basic amenities, elevates the experience with interpretive content, and facilitates meaningful connections to a place. All in an elegant, quiet form that enhances without distracting from its natural setting.
Through a design collaboration with local historians, residents, and Indigenous communities, GWWO created a gateway to the Falls that allows visitors to ‘choose their own adventure’ by selecting from direct, restorative, or educational pathways from the structure’s amenities to the Falls. The jury agreed that this project perfectly addressed all of the limitations of the prior structure and now offers visitors a contemplative, welcoming, and relaxing experience at one of the world’s busiest tourist attractions!” –Good Design = Good Business Jury of Baltimore Professionals Remarks
