Blog

On a building project, every detail is an opportunity to build connections between people and the places they inhabit. Thoughtful selections can deepen the project’s impact.

Since its opening in July 2023, the Pella High School Tennis Complex has experienced a successful first season. Pella’s girls’ tennis team won the state championship, and the boys’ team placed third.

In Fall 2024, the newly renovated Roosevelt High School Library will open its doors to students. The project—funded by the Roosevelt High School Foundation—is designed to fit a 21st-century educational environment with integrated technology and collaboration spaces.

Green roofs—or vegetated roofs—have grown in popularity in recent years. Installations have nearly doubled since 2008, and across the US, almost 17.5 million square feet of roofs are considered green. Most growth has occurred in urban areas, with many cities using green roofs to combat heat and reduce storm water runoff.

A new building or renovation is a significant investment, and funding opportunities or financial incentives go a long way in improving a project’s feasibility. In our home state of Iowa, owners can take advantage of several funding opportunities at the federal, state, and local levels.

Selecting a project delivery method is a foundational part of every building project. The delivery method defines the contractual relationship between the building owner, architect, and contractor and determines how the project will transition from design to construction.

The design and construction process can be long and complex. Without clear expectations between all parties, projects can go awry, impacting your budget and schedule. Before starting design work, we recommend meeting with your design team, discussing the project’s scope, and creating a plan for the work ahead.

On May 3, the National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library (NCSML) in Cedar Rapids will host a groundbreaking ceremony to kick off its clock tower renovation. The project will enhance the structure by adding an astronomical clock—the first in the US and one of only three in the world.

Next month, construction will wrap up on the third phase of the Johnson County Courthouse renovation. The project—broken into six phases—will reconfigure existing spaces, improve accessibility, and enhance efficiency for those who use the building daily. It will also preserve the building’s character and honor its history.

A master plan provides a bird’s eye view of your organization’s growth and development. It outlines potential facility improvements and budget requirements, helping your team plan projects intentionally and invest dollars wisely.