University of Iowa Library Learning Commons
Architects Smith Metzger is proceeding on preliminary design for an exciting project at the University of Iowa library. Nearly 50% of the first floor will be renovated into a learning commons which includes a high tech learning classroom, café, small study rooms for students, computer kiosks for checking email on the fly, and ample amounts of lounge seating.  The structural columns and beams will be exposed throughout the area.

Central Iowa Shelter & Services
The site for the new CISS facility just north of MLK and south of the Pappajohn sculpture park is currently undergoing a massive transformation.  A major earth moving project precedes the construction of the building as the City of Des Moines extends Mulberry to connect with 15^th Street. The facility will provide 150 emergency beds and transitional rooms for 57 clients.  The design features horizontal metal siding at the upper floors and precast concrete at the first level.  A private enclosed lawn will be to the south.

Harl Student Center
Architects Smith Metzger is creating a new Student Commons at Iowa State University’s Curtiss  Hall.  The Harl Commons project is the third phase of the renovation of the iconic Curtiss Hall. The ground floor beneath the ASM renovated Auditorium will be partially removed to create a 2 story atrium to the basement floor.  New floor to ceiling windows will be installed between the Commons and a new outdoor plaza at the east façade of Curtiss Hall.  As with the previous phase, ASM’s sustainable design process will target LEED Gold certification.

Tags: architects Smith Metzger, architectural blog, ASM, Central Iowa Shelter & Services, CISS, Daryl Metzger, des moines gateway, homeless shelter, Iowa State University, Rob Smith, smith metzger, University of Iowa, university renovation