University of Texas at El Paso Opens Texas Western Hall

The University of Texas at El Paso celebrated the opening of Texas Western Hall in January of 2026. Serving as the new home for the College of Liberal Arts, the $110 million facility was designed by Ayers Saint Gross and Mijares-Mora Architects as a dynamic hub for teaching and campus life. The 124,725-sf complex provides state-of-the-art learning environments including 30 classrooms, 20 collaboration rooms, and a 150-seat auditorium equipped with advanced audiovisual modalities. With adaptable furniture and equipment to optimize engagement, the collaborative development features flexible instructional venues that can support diverse pedagogies. Faculty offices are accompanied by support spaces, areas for student organizations, computer rooms, and the Texas Western Café.

A three-story, 2,300-sf lobby incorporates a radiant heating system that circulates warm water through tubing embedded in the concrete floor, delivering consistent temperatures and improved energy efficiency. This iconic atrium connects a five-story east wing and a three-story west wing to foster interaction and exchange. A 3,000-sf rooftop terrace with seating capacity for 200 offers sweeping views of Centennial Plaza.

Replacing a structure built in the 1960s, the project was made possible by $57.1 million in permanent university funds approved by The University of Texas System Board of Regents in 2023, and $52.4 million from the Texas Legislature in 2021. Sundt Construction was the general contractor for the sustainable facility, which maximizes occupant comfort and access to natural light. Ground was broken on Texas Western Hall in late 2023.