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The University of Houston has unveiled its newly redesigned Wellness Center, featuring a series of thoughtful changes aimed at creating an atmosphere of relaxation. The redesign includes dimmed and natural lighting, calming cool tones on the walls, and cozy bean bags that invite rest.
Erica Solis, a 2022 alumna of UH's Graduate College of Social Work, led the transformation. Solis has designed several key spaces within her alma mater and shares how her journey led to this pivotal role. "It started during my internship at the college," Solis said. "We transformed areas that had been underutilized into vibrant, functional spaces."
Solis's involvement with UH Wellness began when Director Reuben Parrish reached out after seeing her work. Together, they explored reimagining wellness spaces across campus. "We did a walk-through and talked about what the team envisioned," Solis explained.
The new center is designed to support mental and physical well-being. Solis used her background in social work and interior design to create an inclusive space for a diverse student population. "There's a lot of research that shows how our physical surroundings affect us emotionally," she shared.
Artwork from current UH students adds a personal touch to the center. The redesign emphasizes inclusivity, flexibility, and intentionality with varied seating options and accessible plugs.
"A lot of the work I do is about transforming spaces," Solis said. "I wanted students to feel like this was a place that truly belonged to them."
Director Parrish highlighted how the redesign offers environments tailored to students' needs: "For students, this is a place to relax... They can come here to study or even take a nap." He noted that the center serves as both a standalone space and a model for future wellness initiatives across campus.
The redesigned Wellness Center reflects UH's dedication to student success by providing an inclusive environment where students can unwind and recharge.