Located in Iowa City, this 600-stall parking structure is lined by 28 condominium units. The two structures, built together, maintain distinct yet complementary identities to enhance the pedestrian streetscape while providing much-needed downtown infrastructure. Residents receive direct access to both the parking deck and sidewalk without common circulation areas.
Perforated aluminum panels on the parking structure’s exposed north and west elevations filter headlights and views without impeding air circulation. The north elevation mimics the condo unit’s scale and verticality with folded metal panels, harmonizing the two structures. Illuminated signage and a glassy stair tower punctuate the metal panels, and a sky bridge connects the structure to the neighboring MidwestOne headquarters.
The project highlights architects’ role as active community team members who navigate complex processes and facilitate multi-stakeholder consensus. Its realization relied on a close collaboration between the contractor—McComas-Lacina Construction (MLC)—and the city.
MLC acquired the property through agreements with the University of Iowa, MidwestOne Bank, and the Iowa City School District. While MLC funded the development, the City of Iowa City signed a long-term lease for the parking structure. A Tax Increment Financing (TIF) agreement filled additional financing gaps.
Project Type: Parking, Housing
Location: Iowa City, Iowa
Size: 188,982 SF
Completed: 2017
Collaborators: Walker Consultants, Parking Consultant
Awards: 2018 AIA Iowa Design Award
