Stay informed about what’s happening as the Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center takes shape on campus.
Welcome Center news | Design-build updates
“A place that will last for generations”
The world-renowned architects Billie Tsien and Jennifer Dempsey of Studio Tsien share their architectural vision and design concepts for the Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center.
Design-build updates
The University of Washington has been refining the idea for a comprehensive welcome center for more than 50 years.
Early visioning efforts began in April 2018, and today, the Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center is becoming a reality. The UW’s design-build Team is working closely with architects at Studio Tsien and local contracting partner Lease Crutcher Lewis to prepare for groundbreaking in 2027.
By the numbers
Building
24,500 square feet
Pavilion
1,890 square feet
Expected annual visitors
200,000+
Timeline
Design & permitting
May 2025–Dec. 2026
Construction
Dec. 2026–spring 2028
Completion
Anticipated 2028
Project history and progress
Here’s a look at the progress and momentum for the Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center in recent years.
Jan. 9, 2025: The UW Board of Regents formally approves this Welcome Center project and its naming in honor of President Ana Mari Cauce.
January 2025: The UW submits a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a general contractor and receives 12 responses. Three finalists were invited to submit a proposal.
February 2025: The UW solicits letters of interest from leading design firms.
June 2025: The UW selects Studio Tsien as the architects for Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center.
December 2025: Reviewed studies on the significant grade geometry of the landscape and impact to building, landscape and services.
March 2026: Studies reviewed around Memorial Way access and drop-off, ADA pathways and the overall arrival experience through the potential landscape.
April 2026: Exploration continues on the building massing, exterior materiality, shared service yard with the Burke and the connecting landscape and patio areas of the new building.
May 2026: The UW selects Studio Joseph as the exhibit designers for Ana Mari Cauce Welcome Center.
Conceptual illustrations: Studio Tsien Architects; Michael Van Valkenburgh Associates