Karsh Institute of Democracy at UVA Tops Out
Charlottesville, VA – The University of Virginia’s Karsh Institute of Democracy has reached a major milestone, marking the topping out of its new facility within the Emmet-Ivy Corridor. Designed by Höweler + Yoon in collaboration with Hanbury, the nearly 70,000 square-foot building is envisioned as an educational ecosystem uniting faculty, students, community members, and visitors.
Established in 2021 with a gift from Bruce and Martha Karsh, the Institute advances democratic scholarship and public engagement. The building features a 400-seat auditorium designed in the round, a media suite, and a range of flexible event spaces to support interdisciplinary programming.
Developed in partnership with the Office of the Architect for the University, Facilities Management, and the Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, the project emphasizes transparency in both design and construction. The Karsh Institute is also recognized as a Design for Freedom Pilot Project, supporting ethical practices in the building materials supply chain.
The facility is scheduled for completion in 2026.
