The Campus Store reimagination at App State involved a comprehensive transformation of over 15,000 square feet of first-floor retail and service space, formerly known as the University Bookstore. The primary goal of the renovation was to increase sales revenue, thereby enhancing the store’s ability to contribute to student scholarships.
Constructed in 1969 and located at the heart of campus within the Student Union, the two-story store serves the entire App State community—including students, faculty, staff, alumni, and campus visitors. In response to a rapidly evolving retail landscape, the renovation aimed to modernize the store, streamline operations, and create a more unified and engaging environment.
J•PA led the design effort, focusing on reimagining the space to better reflect the culture and identity of App State. The new design consolidates previously fragmented areas into a cohesive layout that celebrates the university’s unique brand and its majestic high-country setting. Key architectural features such as the atrium, rotunda, and generous floor-to-floor heights were leveraged to enhance the user experience.
The updated store now features clearly defined merchandise zones for intuitive navigation, along with a two-story feature wall that showcases outdoor equipment commonly used in the region—paired with the App State logo. The new space has quickly become one of the premier destinations on campus, supporting recruitment efforts and serving as a welcoming hub for students, alumni, and guests alike.
