Rafik B. Hariri Building, McDonough School of Business
Georgetown University, Washington D.C.
Blending traditional and modern design to create an iconic building
We created a truly iconic building for business education that blends traditional façade design with modern amenities and energy efficiency. A multi-story glass atrium serves as the core, bringing in daylight and offering areas for informal gathering, events, and learning. Students from across the campus choose the inspiring setting of the atrium as their preferred study space.
Located on a former ballfield abutting the campus center, the Hariri Building brings the business school back to the main campus and houses it under one roof for the first time.
- Extensive programming and precinct master planning redefined a new quadrangle and established new, campus-wide pedestrian connections on the sloping site.
- Award-winning stone masonry and steel on the south elevation nod to the university’s Victorian architecture, juxtaposed with a modern, curving glass pavilion on the east.
- The dramatic, daylit four-story atrium provides a sense of transparency—putting business education and social interaction on display. It is animated by a sculptural central stair; landings provide a variety of sitting spaces along walkways overlooking the atrium. This space is the “main street” of the business school community—a place for impromptu or planned social and study activities.
- The program supports business education with technically sophisticated classrooms, breakout rooms, executive conference room, and offices.
