In 2022, multiple local groups (including City of Knoxville, Visit Knoxville, Public Building Authority, Knox County, and MHM Architects) collaborated to plan multi-phase renovations to the Sunsphere in Downtown Knoxville. Phase I of the renovations addressed the need for exterior painting, while the chief goal of Phase II was to construct a Welcome Center to be operated by Visit Knoxville. Kim Bumpas (Visit Knoxville, President) approached ETCDC requesting assistance in creating a design and budget for this Welcome Center, to be constructed on the third floor (street level) of the building.

ETCDC volunteers Emanuel Huber-Feely, AIA (MHM Architects); Nathan Honeycutt, AIA (MHM Architects); and Randy Merritt (The Christman Company) collaborated to accomplish the different aspects of this project. These volunteers worked closely with Visit Knoxville to understand the spatial needs and features necessary to ensure the new Welcome Center’s visibility, longevity, and economic viability.

Phase I (exterior painting) was completed in late 2023; Phase II (construction of the Welcome Center) began in March 2024 and is set to be completed by the end of 2024.