The Lamar University Welcome Center greets students, families and visitors alike at this fast-growing Beaumont campus that is home to more than 17,000 students. As a gateway to the campus and a front door to Lamar University, the welcome center seeks to emphasize Cardinal community pride and underscore the vibrant campus experience that awaits all who attend or visit.

Collaborating with architect Huitt–Zollars on the new 6,800 sq ft building, M2L’s designs feature low-maintenance and sustainable landscapes to help showcase outdoor gathering spaces to welcome campus visitors and to serve as a point of departure for campus walking tours. One hallmark of the design is the focus on a series of distinctive art pieces that celebrate the “best and brightest of Lamar University.”

Landscape elements contributed to achieving LEED silver accreditation. Native plants were specified for low-water requirements, quick establishment and developmental growth. An innovative, evapotranspiration-based, automated irrigation system efficiently delivers required water while allowing for seasonal or climate adjustments.