We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Coco Hunter. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Coco below.

Coco, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Let’s talk legacy – what sort of legacy do you hope to build?

My legacy? Simple. To create spaces that change lives. I hope to be remembered as a bridge-builder—between generations, between technology and humanity, between what we know and what we dream could be. I care about igniting potential. People looking back and saying,“The ECODOME gave us the tools and the space to discover what we’re capable of, to learn and grow in ways we never knew possible.”

I want the ECODOME to live on as a testament to collective imagination and creativity—a place that future generations can point to as proof of what’s possible when we nurture curiosity, innovation, and meaningful connection. My legacy isn’t just the building itself; it’s the lives changed, the young creators inspired, and the lasting belief that a small, dedicated community can shape a more connected, creative, and sustainable future. I can’t even begin to imagine what these young minds will create when they combine this technology with the their imaginations. That’s what true legacy means—planting seeds of possibility that continue flourishing long after we’re gone.

Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.

My name is Corin—everyone calls me Coco—and my story is about creativity, innovation, and community. I am a Charlottesville native who has lived and worked or over 15 years as a creative visionary and strategic communicator, collaborating with artists, educators, technologists, and entrepreneurs around the world. I’ve always been fascinated by the intersection between human storytelling, cutting-edge technology, and meaningful connections—wondering how we might use these tools not only to entertain but to transform lives.

This passion inspired me to create this legacy project, the ECODOME, Charlottesville’s first fully immersive, multi-purpose creative space. At its heart, ECODOME features a remarkable 50-foot interactive dome designed for intimate gatherings of up to 250 people. Inside, our community experiences groundbreaking immersive media, captivating concerts, unique storytelling, and educational programming that’s unlike anything currently available in our region.

ECODOME solves the critical problem of limited access to advanced digital literacy tools, creative technology, and innovative programming. It gives our educators, students, artists, and residents the power to envision and build their own futures. I’m committed to making sure that every person who walks through the door leaves inspired, equipped with new skills, and feeling deeply connected to their community.

What sets ECODOME apart is our integrated approach to technology, sustainability, wellness, and creativity. The space is intentionally built to be an environmentally conscious model, showcasing renewable energy, sustainable materials, and community-driven design. This dedication to balance—between human wellness, ecological responsibility, and technological innovation—is central to everything we do.

I’m proudest of creating something truly pioneering in my hometown. Right now, we’re building momentum through our community membership campaign, backed by the City of Charlottesville, to bring the ECODOME vision fully to life in a prime downtown location. Our future is exciting—offering unparalleled experiences, digital empowerment, and community connection.

Most importantly, I want people to know that ECODOME is here to empower each of us to embrace our creativity, expand what’s possible, and build a legacy we can all be proud of. Together, we’re shaping a brighter, more innovative Charlottesville—one creative experience at a time.

Why Now?
Right now, we have a choice: We can continue with the status quo, or we can lead boldly into the future. Without ECODOME, ten years from today, we risk being left behind—still relying on outdated infrastructure, still missing vital opportunities for economic growth, digital education, creative innovation, and environmental leadership.

But with ECODOME, in ten years?
Charlottesville is vibrant, thriving—a regional powerhouse attracting visitors, creators, innovators, and educators from everywhere. Our youth have mastered essential digital literacy skills that position them at the forefront of a rapidly evolving economy. Local businesses flourish from increased tourism, artists have found a space to launch their careers, and residents feel deeply connected through shared experiences and a collective purpose.

Core Values Driving Our Vision:

Innovation: Always asking “what’s next?” and relentlessly pursuing new ways of creating immersive, meaningful experiences.

Sustainability: Building responsibly, powered by renewable energy, and demonstrating how technology can coexist harmoniously with our planet.

Wellness: Prioritizing health, mindfulness, and balance within our community experiences.

Inclusivity: Ensuring ECODOME belongs to everyone, welcoming diverse perspectives to foster authentic connection.

Where We Are Now:
We’re actively speaking with location partners, with strong support from the City of Charlottesville. Our membership campaign is thriving, bringing the community together to fund the ECODOME and make this vision real.

This is our opportunity to create something extraordinary—together. This is the future of Charlottesville, built by you, by us, right now.

We often hear about learning lessons – but just as important is unlearning lessons. Have you ever had to unlearn a lesson?

A Lesson I Had to Unlearn

I grew up believing strength meant self-sufficiency—that asking for help was a sign of weakness, and that if I wanted something done right, I had to do it myself. But the truth I’ve learned, through both success and struggle, is the exact opposite: no one achieves greatness alone. True strength lies in collaboration, in having the humility to recognize your limitations, and the wisdom to seek others whose strengths complement your own.

My greatest skill has always been vision—seeing possibilities clearly and vividly. But vision alone can’t create tangible change. When Fred, our lead designer and builder, first heard about ECODOME, he immediately said, “It’s my dream to build your dream.” That was the turning point for me. Fred’s passion and genius in design illuminated my own understanding of leadership. I learned to trust others to bring their unique brilliance, creating a constellation of talent where each star shines individually yet brighter together.

This is what I call “creationshipping”—a powerful synergy built on mutual respect, intrinsic motivation, and shared passion. Every team member we’ve attracted since has brought their own form of genius, empowered to lead in their specialty. I’ve unlearned the belief that strength means doing it alone, replacing it instead with the truth that extraordinary outcomes happen when people are encouraged to shine together. The ECODOME is proof that collective genius far surpasses solitary effort—and that asking for help isn’t weakness; it’s wisdom.

What’s worked well for you in terms of a source for new clients?

Our Best Source of New Clients & Community Members

Our greatest source of growth has always been grassroots, deeply rooted in the community itself. For us, it’s never just been about attracting clients; it’s about cultivating an inspired community of legacy members who embody and demonstrate what genuine sustainability, creativity, and collaboration look like in action.

Because the ECODOME is unprecedented in Charlottesville, the project naturally resonates across all generations and walks of life. Every person who encounters our vision becomes more than just a client—they become ambassadors, passionately sharing the vision within their circles. This community-driven momentum has organically blossomed from intimate, in-person gatherings where we invite our community to engage with us, dream with us, and join in creating something never-before done here.

We’re not interested in mass numbers; our focus is on authentic, quality connections with those who deeply resonate with our values. When we host events, the energy is palpable—people feel inspired, activated, and eager to participate in ways meaningful to them. We’ve learned that true growth is measured not by how many people we reach, but by how deeply they feel moved to become part of this shared story.

This approach aligns beautifully with Margaret Mead’s wisdom:
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

We live this truth every day. Our community is proof that thoughtful, inspired engagement is not only sustainable—it’s transformative.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.cocolatastudio.com/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1F4E1HuQjK/?mibextid=wwXIfr
• Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@ECODOMECville

Image Credits

The portrait of Coco was taken by Julia Lehman McTigue, a Philadelphia-based photographer and the rest, Coco is the artist.