Rice University conducts topping out celebration for Cannady Hall addition

Rice Architecture commemorated the completion of the structural phase of William T. Cannady Hall with a topping out celebration Aug. 21.

“This is a historic moment for our school,” Igor Marjanović, the William Ward Watkin Dean of Rice Architecture, said during his welcome remarks. “This addition would not have happened without the support of university leadership across the board, as well as our numerous donors who made this building possible.”

Designed by Jeannette Kuo and Ünal Karamuk, globally renowned architects and co-founders of Karamuk Kuo Architects based in Zurich, Cannady Hall is set to be completed in early 2024. The structure is a 22,000-square-foot building located between MD Anderson Hall — the home of Rice Architecture — and Fondren Library. The addition is named in honor of William T. Cannady, professor emeritus at Rice Architecture, architect, educator and design champion in the Houston community for more than 60 years.

“The construction of Cannady Hall represents a collective effort by students, faculty, staff and generous donors who share a passion for architectural excellence,” Cannady said. “Together we have transformed a dream into a tangible space that will inspire generations to come. It is my hope that Cannady Hall will serve as a testament to the innovative spirit that lies at the core of Rice University.”