The University of New Mexico’s Lobo Welcome Center has been recognized with the Best Buildings Award from the Associated General Contractors of America (AGC) New Mexico, winning in the Best Building $5 Million to $10 Million category and the Student Choice Award.

The AGC New Mexico Best Buildings Awards highlight exceptional construction projects across the state, honoring teams that demonstrate outstanding achievement, quality and innovation. The Lobo Welcome Center stood out for its unique balance of tradition and forward-thinking design.

Serving as the first stop for thousands of prospective students and their families each year, the Lobo Welcome Center is both the beginning of the campus tour and a central hub for information about the University.

The building, originally a men’s dormitory built in 1941 and designed by renowned architect John Gaw Meem — famous for popularizing the Pueblo Revival Style — has seen several uses over the decades, including housing the Naval ROTC. Now, it’s been reimagined as a modern welcome center that celebrates UNM’s past, present, and future.

Featuring classic adobe walls, custom wood profiles, vigas, and a terracotta sunscreen, the Welcome Center preserves its historic character while showcasing modern additions. Inside, displays include highlights of the University’s achievements — such as a Formula SAE race car built by Lobo Motorsports students — blending history with innovation.

The Lobo Welcome Center also includes an exhibit hall, large presentation room, terrace, lounge area, and multiple office spaces. The transformation was led by UNM Facilities Design & Construction in partnership with McClain + Yu Architecture & Design, Testudo Engineering, and Franken Construction.

The renovation of the Lobo Welcome Center is part of UNM’s larger commitment to honoring its architectural legacy while creating spaces that inspire new generations of students. The award not only highlights quality craftsmanship and design but also recognizes the importance of creating campus spaces that connect history with innovation.

The project showcases how collaborative efforts between designers, engineers, and builders can revitalize historic structures for contemporary use. As the University continues to grow, the Lobo Welcome Center stands as a symbol of UNM’s dedication to welcoming students and families with a blend of authentic New Mexico architecture and forward-looking spirit.

Originally reported by UNM News.