Virginia Commonwealth University is planning to construct the $181 million Arts and Innovation Academic Building in Richmond. Designed by William Rawn Associates and Glavé & Holmes Architecture, the 209,000-sf facility will feature flexible classroom spaces, interdisciplinary performance venues, maker spaces, and an expansive atrium with an interactive staircase. Consolidating programs currently dispersed in 15 locations, the collaborative structure will act as a launch pad for digital and creative economy initiatives by fostering industry partnerships spanning business, engineering, media technology, and medicine. Hourigan Construction is the general contractor for the sustainably designed project, which is targeting a minimum of LEED Silver certification. Groundbreaking is slated for August of 2023 with occupancy expected by fall of 2026.