Tourism officials at the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau embarked on a major renovation of the existing convention center, built in 1974, as part of a long-term expansion vision. This project included modeling the interior to look and feel like a high-end hotel, while the exterior received a stainless steel and glass finish.

The appearance and technology of both the interior and exterior of the facility received updates to better accommodate future events. Such changes included new furnishings and decor, as well as higher ceilings to maximize lighting and better support modern audiovisual presentations. Other spaces that received attention were back-of-house storage, utility and dock areas used for setup and breakdown, and the underside of the west exhibition hall. SSR provided design engineering services for the mechanical, plumbing, and fire protection systems that support the structure.

These upgrades modernized the over 40-year old facility, further enabling the center to host and support events in the Memphis community.