Rice University is planning to renovate a former Sears building in Houston to create a 270,000-sf innovation center called The Ion. Providing event spaces, meeting rooms, and business incubation suites, the collaborative facility will support data science research initiatives and the development of new digital technologies. The complex, which will include dining and entertainment amenities, will host public programs including entrepreneurial workshops, networking sessions, training courses, and industry lectures. The design team includes Gensler, SHoP Architects, James Carpenter Design Associates, and James Corner Field Operations. Hines is overseeing the development of The Ion on behalf of Rice Management Company, with construction slated to begin in May of 2019. The $110 million project represents the first phase of a mixed-use innovation district sited on 16 contiguous acres.
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Gensler
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Architect
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James Carpenter Design Associates
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Design Consultant
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Hines
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Project Developer
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