Skanska celebrates grand opening of new facility at Rice University's Business School

HOUSTON, TX—Skanska USA Building, one of the world's leading construction and development firms, today celebrated the grand opening of Rice University’s Asha and Farid Virani Hall, home to the Jones Graduate School of Business and the Virani Undergraduate School of Business.  
 
“The academic year is off to a great start with the new programs, faculty and students this building affords the University," said Jeff Flemming, interim dean of Rice Business. "We look forward to the future of these programs and are confident the new facility will serve as a springboard for incredible growth."

The project expanded and modernized Rice Business through a 112,000-square-foot addition and renovations to existing facilities, creating new space for the Jones Graduate School of Business, the Virani Undergraduate School of Business and Executive Education programs. The facility features state-of-the-art classrooms, modern office space and amenities such as dining areas, open gathering spaces and facilities for private events. Designed to complement McNair Hall, the addition connects to the existing facility on all three floors through a transitional lobby, creating a seamless experience while establishing its own distinct architectural identity.

"This project represents Rice University's continued investment in creating exceptional environments for learning, collaboration and innovation," said Jorge Huerta, project manager for Skanska USA Building in Texas. "We're proud to have partnered with Rice and the project team to deliver a space that will support the university's expanding business programs and create new opportunities for students and faculty."

Skanska partnered with B. Bell Builders on the project, a local general contractor based in Sugar Land, Texas, and completed the work on an active university campus while maintaining access to surrounding facilities and minimizing disruptions to students, faculty and visitors. Architecture Research Office (ARO) led the building's design, while Houston-based Kirksey Architecture served as the project's executive architect.