Introduction to The Arc at the Ion District
Houston’s Ion District is getting a new addition – a nearly 200,000-square-foot research and technology facility called The Arc at the Ion District. This state-of-the-art facility is expected to break ground in Q2 2026 and be completed by Q1 2028. The project is a collaboration between Rice Real Estate Company and Lincoln Property Company.
What to Expect from The Arc
The Arc will be home to Rice University, which will occupy almost 30,000 square feet of office and lab space. The university’s research at The Arc will focus on energy, artificial intelligence, data science, robotics, and computational engineering. The facility will share a plaza with the Ion and is intended to "extend the district’s success as a hub for innovative ideas and collaboration."
Benefits for Rice University and the Community
According to Rice president Reginald DesRoches, "The Arc will offer Rice the opportunity to deepen its commitment to fostering world-changing innovation by bringing our leading minds and breakthrough discoveries into direct engagement with Houston’s thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem." This means that faculty and students will have the chance to form partnerships and collaborations with industry experts and actual end users at the Ion District.
Sustainable Design and Amenities
The developers of the project are targeting LEED Gold certification by incorporating smart building automation and energy-saving features into The Arc’s design. The facility will feature flexible floor plans, a gym, an amenity lounge, conference and meeting spaces, outdoor plazas, underground parking, and new restaurants. Tenants will have the opportunity to lease floor plans ranging from 28,000 to 31,000 square feet with 15-foot-high ceilings.
Preleasing and Future Plans
Preleasing has begun for organizations interested in joining Rice in the building. According to Ken Jett, president of Rice Real Estate Company, "The Arc at the Ion District will be more than a building — it will be a catalyst for the partnerships, innovations and discoveries that will define Houston’s future in science and technology." The Arc is expected to attract leading organizations and talent to Houston, further strengthening the city’s position as a hub for scientific and entrepreneurial progress.
Conclusion
The Arc at the Ion District is an exciting new development that promises to bring innovative ideas and collaboration to the Ion District. With its state-of-the-art facilities, sustainable design, and commitment to fostering world-changing innovation, The Arc is set to become a hub for scientific and entrepreneurial progress in Houston. As the city continues to grow and evolve, The Arc is sure to play a key role in shaping its future in science and technology.
