Rice School of Business Breaks Ground on New Campus

Rice University in Houston is making waves with its latest groundbreaking project for the Jones Graduate School of Business. The new 112,000-SF building, designed by Architecture Research Office and Kirksey, is set to be a stunning addition to the campus.

One of the most striking features of the new design is the three-story space that showcases the university’s signature red brick and patterned exterior façade as an interior feature, adding character and warmth to the building. The project will include classrooms, office spaces, meeting areas, dining facilities, and even facilities for private events. A sculptural steel staircase will lead to the second floor, adding a touch of modern elegance to the space.

The new building is not just about aesthetics, but also about sustainability. The design incorporates serrated brick to deflect the strong Texas sun, keeping the interiors cool and energy-efficient. The building is also designed to achieve LEED Gold certification, showcasing Rice University’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

In addition to the new building, the project will transform the university’s west quad into an active campus green, while preserving the adjacent Twilight Epiphany Skyspace installation by James Turrell. The new building will provide new vantage points to admire the Skyspace, enhancing the overall campus experience for students and visitors alike.

With a price tag of $54.5 million, the new building for the Jones Graduate School of Business is set to be a game-changer for Rice University, nurturing the next generation of global business leaders in a sustainable and innovative environment.