Ennis Welcome Center
Ennis, Texas
The Ennis Economic Development Corporation acquired an abandoned historic commercial building in the historic downtown of Ennis, Texas to become the city’s new Welcome Center, City Offices, and Chamber of Commerce Offices. The renovation incorporated elements from the previous building on the site including a corner tower, masonry detailing, and wood storefront glazing. Following the predominate period of architecture in the downtown, (1880-1920), the exterior was refaced to add compatible architectural masonry detailing including a cast stone arched corner tower entrance.
The Welcome Center is designed for tourist orientation with a small theater, predominant art display, and public restroom facilities. The Event Room, with adjacent catering space, hosts city, and private events. The office half of the building houses city offices for Building Inspection, Planning, and Economic Development Department. The original wood ceiling structure is exposed within open office areas and office walls are kept low. Skylights were added at the Welcome Center and the open office space to introduce more natural light.
