The Karsh Institute of Democracy is dedicated to producing and amplifying the critical work being done at the UVA to address the biggest challenges to the health of our democracy. Translating research and scholarship into actionable solutions while collaborating with local, national, and global partners, the Karsh Institute of Democracy works to ensure a thriving democratic future at home and abroad. Established in 2021 with a gift from UVA alumni Martha and Bruce Karsh, the Institute is dedicated to strengthening and enhancing the ties between the fundamental institutions, processes, and cultural values that uphold democratic societies.
The new building, which will total nearly 70,000 GSF, will bring together faculty, students, staff, public figures, and visitors in a vibrant space designed to foster collaboration, interdisciplinary scholarship, and research. Working with representatives from the Office of the Architect for the University, Facilities Management, the Karsh Institute, and UVA’s Frank Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy, which will occupy space in the building, the design team sought to reflect the purpose and values of the Institute in its architecture.
A central component of the building’s program is its 400+ seat, state-of-the-art auditorium. The Höweler + Yoon team studied the spatial implications of assembly spaces dedicated to democracy around the world. From this research, the team designed an auditorium in the round with multiple balconies, allowing the audience to view itself from different angles, put itself in the speaker’s shoes, and engage in conversation from different vantage points—important strategies in advancing democracy in today’s political and cultural climate. The building will also feature a media suite equipped with audio and video recording and editing rooms to support the production of content designed to engage the public.
