Virginia Commonwealth University Breaks Ground on CoStar Center for Arts & Innovation

Virginia Commonwealth University broke ground in April of 2024 on the $253 million CoStar Center for Arts and Innovation in Richmond. Designed by William Rawn Associates and Glavé & Holmes Architecture, the 213,000-sf facility will feature flexible classrooms, interdisciplinary performance venues, maker spaces, and an expansive atrium with an interactive staircase. The highly collaborative complex will catalyze partnerships spanning engineering, medicine, business, and the sciences by consolidating innovation programs currently dispersed in 15 separate locations.

The project team includes structural engineer Dunbar, mechanical and electrical engineer Altieri, civil engineer Dewberry, and lighting consultant LAM Partners, with Kirkegaard as acoustic engineer and audiovisual consultant. Hourigan Construction is the general contractor for the sustainably designed structure, which is slated to achieve a minimum of LEED Silver certification. Occupancy is expected in 2027.