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UNIVERSITY OF IOWA MUSEUM OF ART
MORTENSON CONSTRUCTION AND H&H DEVELOPMENT
C E L E B R A T E L I G H T A N D A R T
C O M M U N I T Y C O N N E C T O R
R E I N F O R C E U N I V E R S I T Y C U LT U R E
ENCOURAGE LEARNING AND INQUIRY
I N T E R D I S C I P L I N A R Y E X P L O R AT I O N
E X P E R I E N T I A L A N D E N G A G I N G
O P E N A N D W E L C O M I N G
G A T E W A Y F O R T H E A R T S
S TAT E - O F -T H E -A RT G A L L E RY S PA C E
Letter of Interest ....................................................................................... Page 1
OUR TEAM
Organizational Structure .................................................................. Page 6
Team Resumes .................................................................................. Page 7
EXPERIENCE
CRST Center ...................................................................................Page 13
John Deere Financial Worldwide ....................................................Page 15
Bioventures .....................................................................................Page 17
United States Courthouse..............................................................Page 19
Hancher Auditorium ........................................................................Page 21
State Hygienic Laboratory .............................................................Page 23
Cedar Rapids Public Library ...........................................................Page 25
John Deere Harvester Works ..........................................................Page 27
Additional Projects ..........................................................................Page 29
PROCESS
Project Approach ............................................................................Page 37
FEE STRUCTURE
Professional Services .....................................................................Page 46
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Firm Profile ......................................................................................Page 49
Design Awards ................................................................................Page 50
Design-Build ....................................................................................Page 51
Environmental Responsibility .........................................................Page 52
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Dear Randy and Members of the Selection Committee:
OPN Architects is pleased to submit our team qualifications for the architectural design of the new University of Iowa Museum of Art. This is an exciting project at an extraordinary time in Iowa City. The University’s flood recovery is well underway, downtown private development is robust, and plans for the Riverfront Crossings Master Plan have been officially adopted. The University’s selection of your site in the heart of downtown, across from the new School of Music, defines a new threshold for art and cultural exploration in Iowa City. The new museum will be the nexus of campus and community, a visible and dynamic home for art and education, and a bridge between the University and the larger community.
Our firm has enjoyed the opportunities to collaborate with the Mortenson team while working together on a series of projects ,including the new Hancher Auditorium, Cornell College residence halls, and the Graduate Plaza at Grinnell College. We’re excited by the prospect of establishing a strong design-build partnership on this project and the opportunity to leverage our shared experience to benefit the University of Iowa.
As dedicated supporters of the arts and a frequent design partner of the University of Iowa, we were deeply saddened by the impact of the flood on the Museum of Art. We’ve followed the evolution of this project since that time and have been impressed by the open, creative approach the University has taken to establish a new vision for the museum. Shortly after the flood waters receded, President Sally Mason challenged a group of experts to re-envision the museum of the future and set forth the following guiding principles:
• The UIMA is an integral part of the academic mission of the University of Iowa.
• The UIMA is the steward of its permanent collection and cultivates the strategic enhancement of that collection for the benefit of its constituents.
• The UIMA’s constituents are University of Iowa students, faculty and staff; K-12 students in the region; museum supporters; and the general public.
• The UIMA works collaboratively with other units on campus as well as with museums in the region and throughout the world.
We believe that these principles and the resulting committee recommendations establish a solid foundation for our team to build upon. Guided by these principles, we see the opportunity to create a dynamic and active museum that will foster teaching and learning while opening the collections and program to the wider campus and regional community.
We believe a Mortenson / OPN design-build team will bring exceptional value to this important project. There are specific areas we would like to highlight which, when combined, provide significant advantages for you to consider:
DESIGN-BUILD EXPERIENCEAs we consider the unique potential of this project, we are truly excited by the developer-driven, design-build delivery approach. We are committed supporters of the potential of a true design-build approach and have built a 25-year record of successful design-build partnerships. In spite of the state of Iowa taking decades to embrace design-build delivery, OPN has completed hundreds of design-build projects both large and small, simple and complex. In our experience, an integrated design-build team has significant opportunities to generate value, produce creative design, and conceive innovative solutions. Our 25-year successful track record of contracting directly with builders and builder-developers is unrivaled in the state of Iowa.
LETTER OF INTEREST
1 | OPN Architects
UNIQUE AND COMPLEX PROJECTSA museum is a unique building type. While not exceptionally complex programmatically, the environmental systems, lighting, daylighting, and key operational elements are all critical to receiving, displaying, preserving, and storing valuable art. As a University museum, there are the additional requirements of providing functional and flexible teaching and research space. Working with Mortenson and the University, we look forward to finding the right museum design consultant to augment our team. While we have not yet designed a museum, we have designed numerous unique and complex buildings. Our team believes we need to dive deep into program requirements and work very closely with our subject-matter experts and consultants to develop the most innovative, cost-responsible solutions. Our response includes case studies of several of our most complex projects that required close attention to the imperatives of environmental controls, including the State Hygienic Laboratory, Hancher Auditorium, the United States Courthouse in Cedar Rapids, and the restoration of the Paramount Theatre.
ACADEMIC SPACES The collection is a critical part of the academic mission for those studying, teaching and researching within visual arts programs. In relocating the museum to a new site on campus, the University has underscored the importance of access and adjacency to the collection for University of Iowa students. We understand the need to create an inviting space that welcomes students from all disciplines to interact with the art, and are excited by the challenge that presents. A significant portion of OPN’s portfolio is in higher education and the creation of flexible and innovative teaching and laboratory spaces. The recently completed Biorenewables Complex at ISU includes 220,000 gross square feet of laboratories, classrooms, offices, and a central atrium. The design created state-of-the-art flexible, technology-ready classrooms, and educational and research laboratories. While the materials being studied at Biorenewables obviously differ from the museum’s collection, the design parallels the museum’s desire to encourage active learning and interdisciplinary connections. This project also demonstrates the importance of creating unique circulation zones and the ways in which transparency can be used to encourage engagement within a building, while maintaining distinct secure spaces for controlled research and material storage.
STRONG TEAMWe discussed at great length who the right players were for this project, and we are confident that the leadership team we have proposed will provide Mortenson and the UIMA with the absolute best talent and management skills available. Each team member was selected for his or her specific experience and skills. Our leadership team is backed by a deep roster of talented designers who will ensure that we have the capacity to hit our milestones. From our perspective, this opportunity couldn’t come at a better time for our studio. We have a window in our schedule that dovetails with the projected project schedule. We only pursue work that we know we can perform to the highest standards of excellence. In offering our proposal, we guarantee to you that we are 100-percent committed to project success.
In the sections that follow, we have answered your questions and provided examples of our work. We look forward to the opportunity to discuss our submittal in detail with you. Thank you, once again, for considering OPN on this important project.
Regards,
Daniel J. Thies, AIA, LEED APPresident, OPN Architects
OPN Architects | 2
OUR TEAM
5 | OPN Architects
OPN Architects | 6
MUSEUM DESIGNSPECIALIST
LEASE
ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE
CIVIL ENGINEER
STRUCTURAL ENGINEER
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
MEP ENGINEER
LIGHTING DESIGNER
ACOUSTICAL ENGINEER
ENVELOPE CONSULTANT
CONSULTANT TEAM:
DEVELOPER:H&H DEVELOPMENT
DANIEL THIES PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE
JUSTIN BISHOP PROJECT MANAGER
HEATHER LYNXWILER PROJECT ARCHITECT
TATE WALKER SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIST
DESIGN TEAM:
DESIGN-BUILDER:
7 | OPN Architects
As the President of OPN Architects, Daniel Thies has been responsible for charting the path forward on OPN’s largest and most
complex projects. Dan has extensive experience working in the Higher Education market, and this experience will guide the
programming and design of this important project. Over the past decade, Dan has served as the principal-in-charge on a series
of complex projects with multifaceted programs, ranging in project size from $500,000 to $132 million and spanning markets as
diverse as Higher Education, Performing Arts, Corporate and Civic work. For the University of Iowa Museum of Art, Dan will serve
as the Principal-in-Charge, guiding the project from inception to completion.
EDUCATION
Des Moines Area Community College, 1978
REGISTRATION & ACCREDITATION
Licensure: Minnesota
American Institute of Architects
LEED Accredited Professional
EXPERIENCE
Brown, Healey, Bock, 1978-1979
OPN Architects, 1979-Present
AFFILIATIONS
C.R.I.C.A.C.
Cedar Rapids Airport Commission
Chair, 2009
Science Stations, Board of Directors
Board Chair, 2007, 2010
Young Parents Network, Board of Directors
Board Chair, 2008
United Way of East Central Iowa
Trustee, Campaign Chair, 2000
Junior Achievement, Trustee
CRST Center, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
Deere & Company
John Deere Financial Worldwide Headquarters, Johnston, Iowa*
Main Headquarters*
Main Headquarters Expansion*
John Deere Corporate Aviation Hangar, Moline, Illinois*
John Deere Collectors Center, Moline, Illinois*
John Deere Healthcare Headquarters, Moline, Illinois*
John Deere Commons, Moline, IL*
Distribution Centers:
Central Distribution, Wisconsin*
Southern Distribution, Tennessee*
Attachment Distribution, Iowa*
US Courthouse, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Mississippi Plaza, Davenport, Iowa*
NCMIC Group, Inc., Clive, Iowa*
Rockwell Collins, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
Building 130*
Bass Street Landing, Moline, Illinois*
Sentry Insurance, Davenport, Iowa*
Mercy Hospital, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Hospice House of Mercy*
Cedar Crossings Casino, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
Great America Building, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
Hancher Auditorium
Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
DoubleTree by Hilton
US Cellular Center
McLeod / Busse IMAX Theatre, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
Radisson Hotel / TGI Fridays*
*Denotes Design-Build project
SELECT EXPERIENCE
DANIEL THIES, AIA, LEED AP PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE
EDUCATION
Iowa State University,
Bachelor of Architecture, 2004
University of Iowa,
MBA, 2015 (expected)
REGISTRATION & ACCREDITATION
Licensure: Iowa
American Institute of Architects
LEED Accredited Professional
EXPERIENCE
OPN Architects, 2004-Present
AFFILIATIONS
C.R.I.C.A.C.
United Way of East Central Iowa
Leadership for Five Seasons
JUSTIN BISHOP, AIA, LEED AP PROJECT MANAGER
Justin Bishop has been an Architect with OPN Architects for more than 10 years since graduating with a Bachelor of Architecture
degree from Iowa State University. Justin has a great passion for learning and continuing education and is nearing completion of
a Master of Business Administration degree from the University of Iowa, Tippie School of Business. Justin was recently a project
architect on Hancher Auditorium for the University of Iowa, where his experience with building envelopes and technically challenging
design was utilized to deliver custom enclosure systems for stainless steel shingles and high performance curtainwall.
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
Iowa Memorial Union
State Hygienic Laboratory
Bioventures Center*
Hancher Auditorium
University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Iowa City, Iowa
Neurosurgery Clinic Expansion
Cardiac CT Scanner Suite
Mount Mercy University, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
University Center
Sisters of Mercy Plaza
Graduate Center
Deere & Company
John Deere Harvester Works, East Moline, Illinois
John Deere Corporate Aviation Hangar, Moline, Illinois
John Deere Des Moines Works, Ankeny, Iowa*
Jane Boyd Community House, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
BioLife Plasma Center, Coralville, Iowa*
Moline Public Library, Moline, Illinois
Marengo Public Library, Marengo, Iowa
Cedar Rapids Convention Complex, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel
US Cellular Center
*Denotes Design-Build project
SELECT EXPERIENCE
OPN Architects | 8
EDUCATION
Iowa State University,
Bachelor of Architecture, 1998
REGISTRATION & ACCREDITATION
Licensure: Iowa
American Institute of Architects
LEED Accredited Professional
N.C.A.R.B. Certified
EXPERIENCE
OPN Architects, 1998-Present
AFFILIATIONS
C.R.I.C.A.C.
American Library Association,
Member
Leadership for Five Seasons,
Class of 2009
United Way of East Central Iowa
HEATHER LYNXWILER, AIA, LEED AP PROJECT ARCHITECT
Heather Lynxwiler’s portfolio reflects a diverse range of project and client types including many cultural centers. Heather’s
research-intensive approach and commitment to collaboration with the client team makes her especially suited for working with
the University of Iowa. As project architect, Heather will ensure that the project’s objectives are realized through design. Heather’s
notable projects featured throughout this proposal are: the John Deere Worldwide Financial Headquarters, John Deere Harvester
Works, Alexander Girard Folk Art Display, Cedar Rapids Public Library and the Cedar Rapids Museum of Art. Heather’s design
excellence is matched by her strategic planning abilities.
Museum of Art Renovation, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Kirkwood Community College, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
The Hotel at Kirkwood
Center for Continuing Education
Deere & Company
John Deere Worldwide Financial Headquarters, Johnston, Iowa*
Expansion*
John Deere Harvester Works, East Moline, Illinois
Alexander Girard Folk Art Display, Moline, Illinois
Cedar Rapids Public Library, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Main Branch
Ladd Library Branch
Williamsburg Public Library, Williamsburg, Iowa
Moline Public Library, Moline, Illinois
Washington Public Library, Washington, Iowa
Intermec, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
University of Northern Iowa, Cedar Falls, Iowa
Rod Library
Grinnell College, Grinnell, Iowa
Burling Library
University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa
Dey House Iowa Writers’ Workshop
Hall-Perrine Cancer Center, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
Aegon Corporate Daycare, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Council Street
Collabrance, GreatAmerica Financial, Cedar Rapids, Iowa*
HNI Gunlocke Corporate Headquarters, Muscatine, Iowa
OPN Architects, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
*Denotes Design-Build project
SELECT EXPERIENCE
9 | OPN Architects
EDUCATION
University of Washington,
Bachelor of Architecture, 1997
REGISTRATION & ACCREDITATION
Licensure: Wisconsin, California
American Institute of Architects
LEED Accredited Professional
EXPERIENCE
OPN Architects, 2014-Present
Energy Center of Wisconsin, 2004-2014
Robert Walker Architects, 1999-2004
Curtis Beattie & Associates, 1997-1999
AFFILIATIONS
USGBC, Energy & Atmosphere Technical
Advisory Group
Advanced Buildings New Construction
Guide, Technical Advisory Group
Department of Energy, Commercial
Lighting Initiative
LEED v4, Technical Expert Exam
Development
TATE WALKER, AIA, LEED AP BD+C SUSTAINABILITY SPECIALIST
Tate Walker is an architect with a special emphasis in energy and sustainability. Prior to joining OPN, Tate served as a high-
performance / sustainability consultant for commercial and industrial projects focusing on energy research, technology evaluation,
and promoting environmental awareness through design. His consulting experience includes integrating energy systems and
sustainability initiatives on capitol projects with many major university, civic, and corporate clients throughout the Midwest including
Manpower (Milwaukee, WI), Rush University (Chicago, IL), and Milwaukee Department of Public Works (Milwaukee, WI). Tate will act
as an internal sustainability consultant on this project.
Speaking Engagements
Deep Energy Retrofits
Design Tools to Quantify High Performance, Lighting and Daylighting
Daylighting Fundamentals
High Performance: Envelope Design
Tools to Make Green Building Faster
A Market Approach to Green Building
Experience
Engberg Anderson Design Partnership, Milwaukee, WI
G&W Electric, Bolingbrook, IL
Manpower Headquarters Milwaukee, Milwaukee, WI
SC Johnson Global Distribution Center, Racine, WI
SC Johnson, Johnson Diversey, Sturdevant, WI
West Bend Mutual Insurance, West Bend, WI
Adler School of Professional Psychology Chicago Campus, Chicago, IL
DePaul University Art Center, Chicago, IL
Milwaukee Department of Public Works Headquarters, Milwaukee, WI
Northwestern University
Outpatient Tower, Chicago, IL
University East Parking Ramp, Evanston, IL
School of Music, Evanston, IL
Olivet Nazarene University, Bourbonnals, IL
Student Life and Recreation Center
Roosevelt University, Academic Center, Chicago, IL
Rush University East Tower, Chicago, IL
University of Wisconsin, Whitewater, WI
Whitewater School of Business
SELECT EXPERIENCE
OPN Architects | 10
EXPERIENCE
CRST International tasked OPN with creating a “statement building”
that would dramatically change the Cedar Rapids skyline. This 11-story
tower will be a welcome addition to the City, with CRST occupying two
floors and Bankers Trust serving as the anchor tenant for the building.
The facility will include eight floors of office space and three floors of
parking. On the main level, retail spaces will be provided.
Sustainability was an important charge when designing this 120,000
square foot multi-tenant office tower. The building features the City of
Cedar Rapids’ first living green wall, a substantial solar control screen
and high performance glass. The building also incorporates a flood
wall and flood pump station into the lower-level parking area to ensure
stability in the event of a flood. Perhaps one of the most visible design
features is the cantilevered balcony that runs up to the edge of the
Cedar River. The balcony contains a rooftop plaza with expansive views
to the Cedar River and the downtown urban fabric.
The building is estimated to be completed in 2016.
CRST CENTER
CONTACT
Dylan Smith
Owner
CRST Center
(319) 396-4400
TEAM
Daniel Thies
DELIVERY
Design-Build
LOCATION
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
YEAR
2016 (estimated)
SIZE
120,000 sf
COST
$40,150,000
13 | OPN Architects
Design-Build
Statement Building
Art and Light
LEED Target
Retail Design Strategies
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 14
In 2000, John Deere Credit selected a rolling hillside to develop its
three-story 240,000 square foot worldwide headquarters in Johnston,
Iowa. The site’s natural constructs and the Jeffersonian Grid provided
the foundation for a layering and grid system which organized both the
site and building design. The facility is split into two separate wings
connected by a three-story atrium.
Ten years later, a three-story addition was constructed to the west of
the existing John Deere Financial Worldwide Headquarters campus.
This addition encompasses a total of 145,000 square feet of office and
training space and is connected to the existing facility wings via an on-
grade hallway and a second floor skywalk.
An internal courtyard provides a secure green space for private
meetings and informal gatherings. The first floor of the new facility
houses mechanical spaces, a fitness center, open cubicle areas, and a
conference center. The second and third floors are primarily open office
work environments. In total, the facility can house between 700–800
employees in open seating, depending on cubicle density. Additional
parking requirements are being met with a combination of expanded
on-grade parking and a single level parking deck accommodating 183
spaces.
The new building reflects the original design in terms of materials,
building aesthetics, and landscaping features. Although basic building
systems will be similar to the 2000 complex, upgrades have been
incorporated to allow the expansion to meet LEED Gold standards.
JOHN DEERE FINANCIAL WORLDWIDE HEADQUARTERS
CONTACT
Dan McConaghy
Corporate Facilities Manager
Deere & Company
(309) 765-5484
TEAM
Daniel Thies
Heather Lynxwiler
DELIVERY
Design-Build
LOCATION
Johnston, Iowa
YEAR
Phase 1: 2000
Phase 2: 2010
SIZE
Phase 1: 240,000 sf
Phase 2: 145,000 sf
COST
Phase 1: $28,000,000
Phase 2: $28,916,000
LEED
Gold
15 | OPN Architects
Design-Build
Statement Building
LEED Gold
Exhibit Space
Campus Environment
Flexible / Adaptable Design
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 16
BioVentures creates a collaborative environment for nascent
biotechnology companies looking to grow. The facility functions as a
business incubator for biotech start-ups, and includes wet lab and dry
lab modules that can be leased as individual spaces or combined into
larger units. Half of the 80,000 square foot building was designed as
speculative lab space and is potentially available to those businesses
that start out in the incubator.
The goal for the building was to create a dynamic, highly collaborative
environment that would serve as a catalyst for innovation. With this in
mind, lab modules are organized along a central corridor on two levels
that terminate in a transparent glass stairwell. This simple arrangement
of lab modules is a logical response to the ideal depth for maximizing
efficiency and daylighting.
Several common spaces are located at the center of the building and
are designed to support the incubator modules. In addition to shared
resources, amenities such as the lobby and the board and conference
rooms allow small companies to accommodate meetings with investors
and offer credibility. The lobby also adjoins a large multi-purpose room
with a series of large pivot doors forming the division between the two.
These doors, when open, provide the appearance of a continuous space.
The architectural aesthetic responds to a larger master plan concept for
the research park which seeks to reinterpret the Midwestern vernacular
through materials, rhythms and scale. This building embodies the region’s
agricultural heritage in a progressive application that also expresses the
high-tech nature of the activities within. The use of limestone for the
building’s base is a direct interpretation of the limestone foundations
used at farmsteads across the Midwest.
BIOVENTURES
CONTACT
Diane Gallagher
Director of Office Corporate Partnerships
University of Iowa
(319) 335-3941
DELIVERY
Design-Build
LOCATION
Coralville, Iowa
YEAR
2010
SIZE
80,000 sf
COST
$13,191,371
17 | OPN Architects
Design-Build
University of Iowa Tenant
Collaborative Research Environment
Flexible / Adaptable Design
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 18
As the Architect of Record, OPN was responsible for managing all
aspects of this large, complex, technologically-advanced project,
including coordinating a team of 15 consultants from across the country.
Approximately 50% of the 305,999 sf building is high-performance
multi-tenant office space housing 19 governmental agencies. The
building is designed with access floor, high-performance, blast-resistant
glazing, solar panels, a rain-water collection system, and a green roof.
Situated on the Cedar River and overlooking Cedar Rapids, Iowa — the
design of the building was guided by critical ideas that root the building
in its context and develop a strong civic character for the building, both
inside and out. Prominent among these ideas are:
• The relationship of the building to downtown Cedar Rapids to the
north and 8th Avenue to the south and to the Red Cedar River at
the west edge of the site.
• The development of the building and its surrounding landscape as a
civic place analogous to other civic areas in Cedar Rapids such as
Mays Island and Greene Square Park.
• The creation of a building that expresses the public nature of the
judicial process by being both visually and physically inviting as well
as clear and easy to understand in its internal organization.
• The creation of a building that expresses the seriousness and
importance of the judicial process.
The Courthouse opened its doors to the public on-time, on-budget and
free of any litigation — a rarity for GSA projects of this scale.
UNITED STATES COURTHOUSE
CONTACT
Renea Solmonson
Project Manager
United States District Court
(319) 286-2236
TEAM
Daniel Thies
Justin Bishop
DELIVERY
Construction Manager as Constructor
LOCATION
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
YEAR
2012
SIZE
305,999 sf
COST
$120,000,000
LEED
Gold
19 | OPN Architects
CM as Constructor
Statement Building
Exhibit Space
Complex, Multi-Tenant Building
Advanced Environmental Controls
Specialized Blast-Resistant Glass
LEED Gold
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 20
For more than 30 years, Hancher Auditorium has presented the finest
in world culture to students and the public alike. In 1999, The New York
Times called Hancher a “forward-looking arts sponsor.” In June 2008, the
University of Iowa incurred significant damage to campus buildings due
to the flooding of the Iowa River. Of those buildings flooded, the Voxman
Music Building, Hancher and Clapp Recital Hall were all damaged and
determined by FEMA eligible for replacement.
In February 2010, OPN Architects was selected as the Architect of
Record for the design of a new Hancher replacement building. Shortly
thereafter, the University of Iowa and OPN selected internationally
acclaimed Pelli Clarke Pelli as the design architect.
The original building was designed by Max Abramovitz (1972), and stood
as an icon, symbolizing the arts for the University, the community and
the State of Iowa. It is the desire of the University for the replacement
facility to carry that same distinction.
The replacement of the existing Hancher facility will have a large multi-
purpose proscenium theater, as well as a smaller performance space for
rehearsals, performance and teaching. The building program requires
front-of-house and back-of-house support spaces and administrative
offices. The larger theater space will accommodate commercial
productions including music, dance, opera and theatrical works.
Designed in collaboration with Pelli Clarke Pelli.
HANCHER AUDITORIUM
CONTACT
Rod Lehnertz
Director of Campus & Facilities
University of Iowa
(319) 353-2235
TEAM
Justin Bishop
Daniel Thies
DELIVERY
Construction Manager as Agent
LOCATION
Iowa City, Iowa
YEAR
2015 (estimated)
SIZE
189,000 sf
COST
$161,000,000
21 | OPN Architects
CM as Agent
University of Iowa
Statement Building
Advanced Environmental Controls
Public Building
Complex Program
Distinct Public / Private Spaces
LEED Target
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 22
Located at the University of Iowa’s Research Park, this new laboratory
and office facility provides modern and flexible testing and administration
space while projecting an image of visibility and transparency to the
public. The building’s form and layout was driven by a singular, open lab
space that runs the length of the building.
The exterior finishes include a variety of materials, giving the building
a layered composition that articulates the activities within. Light-toned
brick and limestone clad the second floor lab “bar,” giving it a secure,
but appealing aesthetic. Full height glass is used extensively on the
first and lower levels to fulfill daylighting needs in office space and
provide transparency and views. Gray metal wraps vertical circulation
and service cores, as well as a third story mechanical penthouse that
gives the building a distinctive profile and additional height. The two
announced entry features are accentuated by a contemporary, white
aluminum composite panel.
Announced public and employee entrances on the north and south
facades organize a perpendicular cross-axis through the building and
create signature focal points on those elevations. The public entrance
along the North features a two-story high atrium with a large structural
glass window wall that creates a dramatic first impression for visitors
and provides staging for public tours. Opposite the window wall is
another glass wall with views directly into the open lab area on the
second floor. The employee entrance to the south extends beyond the
main building form and is capped by a narrower structural glass window
wall, with similar vertical proportions to the public entrance on the north.
STATE HYGIENIC LABORATORY
CONTACT
Steve Otto
Manager, Planning, Design & Construction
University of Iowa
(319) 384-2091
TEAM
Justin Bishop
DELIVERY
Design-Bid-Build
LOCATION
Coralville, Iowa
YEAR
2010
SIZE
113,900 sf
COST
$37,750,000
LEED
Gold
23 | OPN Architects
University of Iowa Tenant
Collaborative Research Environment
Flexible / Adaptable Design
Advanced Environmental Controls
LEED Gold
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 24
The new 95,000-square foot library is designed to be a vibrant,
multipurpose destination and a space for the community to mix and
collaborate. The design of the new library was driven by the desire to
embrace openness, transparency and foster public engagement with
and within the space. With those principles in mind, the team looked for
innovative ways to present vistas and views throughout the structure
while visually connecting the streetscape with the functions occurring
within the building.
In keeping with the themes of openness and transparency, large
expanses of glass occur at the first and second floors of the collection
spaces. Views into the building frame the rhythmic placement of library
stacks juxtaposed with a lively and active Children’s Collection. The
views in and out of the collection spaces are seen from nearly every
vantage point around the new library. A 200-seat auditorium situated
on the second and third levels looks outward toward Greene Square. The
auditorium stage is set against a curtain wall of glass allowing for the
changing seasons and cityscape to serve as a living backdrop.
The new library represents a tremendous investment of resources. It was
essential that the design be flexible to accommodate the future needs of
the community. One method of “future proofing” was the integration of
raised access floors as part of the design. These raised floors will allow
for the distribution of power, data, and low velocity supply air permitting
the collection spaces to evolve over time. The collection spaces were
intentionally designed to be very open; they incorporate few walls and
a clear span between the columns to allow for the full utilization of the
available square footage. The southern portion of the site is surface
parking, which could be utilized as space for future expansion.
CEDAR RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY
CONTACT
Bob Pasicznyuk
Former Library Director
Douglas County Libraries
(319) 432-4551
TEAM
Heather Lynxwiler
DELIVERY
Construction Manager as Agent
LOCATION
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
YEAR
2013
SIZE
94,000 sf
COST
$24,128,634
LEED
Platinum
25 | OPN Architects
CM as Agent
Statement Building
Exhibit Space
Community Hub
Flexible / Adaptable Design
Retail Design Strategies
Advanced Environmental Controls
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 26
Deere and Company had plans to convert a small outside corner of one
of their existing high bay factory areas into a two story space to house
a new visitor’s center and office space. Rather than remove the existing
exterior skin to complete this conversion, the architects recommended
a more sustainable approach by creating a new envelope that wraps
portions of the existing exterior to define and differentiate space on
the interior and unify perforations and projections in the shell. Because
the building was also meant to feature the history of the company,
materials were chosen that would represent the rich heritage of the
farming industry; weathered steel thus became the choice for this new
exterior cladding. This utilitarian material provides a familiar connection
to visitors and farmers while being utilized in a non-traditional format.
Furthering the connection between interior and exterior, a nearly forty
foot high structural glass wall forms a giant picture window into the
lobby space where the latest technology is featured. This essentially
becomes the signage for the building as this life-sized billboard is viewed
from the entrance drive. Upon closer approach to the building, field and
crop striping is recalled in the paving and transitions to a deeply toned
interior floor surface that is reminiscent of rich agricultural earth.
Sustainability continues to be a high priority at all interior space with
many material choices based on both renewable and agriculturally
based products. The palette of a clean, white background was used to
reference an art gallery that features the tractor as a sculptural object.
JOHN DEERE HARVESTER WORKS, VISITORS’ CENTER
CONTACT
Steve Eppel
Architect
John Deere
(309) 765-4046
TEAM
Justin Bishop
Heather Lynxwiler
DELIVERY
Design-Bid-Build
LOCATION
East Moline, Illinois
YEAR
2007
SIZE
30,000 sf
COST
$4,500,000
27 | OPN Architects
Statement Building
Exhibit Space
Flexible / Adaptable Design
Distinct Public / Private Spaces
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 28
In 1928, the city of Cedar Rapids, Iowa celebrated the opening of the
Paramount Theatre. In June 2008, a devastating flood swept through
Cedar Rapids. The Paramount Theatre lay directly in its path and the
theater was flooded to an elevation of approximately eight feet above
the main street level. The theater was severely damaged by water and
debris.
In the fall of 2008, the City of Cedar Rapids contracted OPN Architects
to plan and oversee the renovation of the Paramount Theatre. Among
the City’s most important goals was to insure that the theater would be
restored in a manner that honored the building’s rich history and cultural
significance. This large, complex project required extensive preliminary
research and analysis to identify the materials and techniques used to
create the original elements. A team of experts was brought in to examine
and restore the building’s historic features. Among these features were:
• Elaborate and highly articulated plaster forms and details on nearly
every interior surface
• Marezzo scagliola plaster designed to simulate elegant stone
• Aluminum leaf, paints and glazes in sophisticated color
combinations and patterns
• Grand crystal chandeliers and delicate stained-glass light fixtures,
all hand crafted and assembled by highly-skilled artisans
• An iconic “one-of-a-kind” Wulitzer organ featuring a finely detailed
and extravagantly decorated console which historians have
referred to as a “singular work of art”
The restored theater opened to the public with a ribbon cutting ceremony
on October 26, 2012.
PARAMOUNT THEATRE
CONTACT
Jason Anderson
General Manager
Paramount Theatre
(319) 398-5226
DELIVERY
Construction Manager as Agent
LOCATION
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
YEAR
2012
SIZE
75,578 sf
COST
$34,700,000
29 | OPN Architects
CM as Agent
Statement Building
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
In November 2001, a devastating fire destroyed the dome, cupola, bell
tower, and caused extensive damage to the interior. The restoration
work included reconstructing and repairing the fire damaged items. The
restoration of Old Capitol was approached as a preservation project
of the highest order. The project began in January 2002, with a two-
day site visit by the architects to begin the communication process of
meetings with primary stakeholders, interviews with key personnel,
condition surveys and archival research, and to begin the discussion
on the logistics of the procurement and erection of the replacement
structure.
Guided by the building’s historic identity, the team resolved that
wherever appropriate and possible, historic fabric was conserved and
new, replacement components matched the originals in kind. Upgrades
to the building are invisible wherever possible and were executed in the
most sensitive fashion where they must be evident.
The restoration addressed all fire damaged items as well as life safety
/ code enhancements to the building, including a new sprinkler system,
fire alarm system, and code compliant restrooms. New programmatic
space included an improved gift shop, and two new interactive museum
spaces.
With the moving of the gift store to the main level of the museum, sales
have doubled allowing the staff to expand the quality and quantity of
items available in the store. The attendance at the museum has been up
significantly since the re-opening in May 2006.
OLD CAPITOL RESTORATION
CONTACT
Rod Lehnertz
Director of Campus & Facilities
University of Iowa
(319) 353-2235
DELIVERY
Design-Bid-Build
LOCATION
Iowa City, Iowa
YEAR
2006
SIZE
7,200 sf
COST
$4,275,000
OPN Architects | 30
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Exhibit Space
Public Space
RELEVANCE:
31 | OPN Architects
The Alexander Girard installation at the Deere & Company Headquarters is an integral part of the identity of the Saarinen-
designed building. Nearing 50 years old, the installation runs the length of the space, and tells a sweeping story of
the Company, its customers and in a sense, American agriculture. The design is seemingly simple – but that belies the
integration of the installation into the powerful architectural space and the equipment that guests and employees see
upon entering. In a sense, this is the story that that is the foundation of the John Deere Company, the customers they
have served over a storied history, and connects the past with the present.
Unfortunately, environmental conditions (temperature, relative humidity, light exposure) and accessibility into the case
were jeopardizing the artifacts in the display. Deere & Company asked OPN to study the display to understand the
contributing causes to the current situation, set criteria for conditions to be achieved, and propose options for mitigation
with supporting cost information that enable John Deere to continue the display as a feature in their Headquarters for
years to come. OPN worked with museum consultant, Water Crimm to complete the study.
ALEXANDER GIRARD FOLK ART DISPLAY STUDY
The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art has always been a cultural center for the city of Cedar Rapids. After the flood of 2008,
a lot of downtown businesses took the opportunity to start over fresh. The Cedar Rapids Museum of Art sits parallel
to the brand new Cedar Rapids Public Library, divided by Greene Square. With both public sites seeing a redesign, the
Cedar Rapids Museum of Art decided to update their external facade.
The original facade included a 12 foot wall hiding the steps to the entrance of the museum, as well as a long ramp
that did not meet ADA requirements. OPN was tasked with opening up the entrance, creating a welcoming space that
complements the surrounding neighborhood. The interior vestibules were remodeled as well to create consistency in the
updated design.
CEDAR RAPIDS MUSEUM OF ART
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Exhibit Space
RELEVANCE:
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Exhibit Space
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 32
In 2011, OPN started working with The Principal to redesign the corporate headquarters in downtown Des Moines. Our
work began as a straight-forward study of the campus environment with the goal of modernizing existing facilities and
consolidating open space. The result was a comprehensive plan to modernize The Principal’s campus to meet the needs
of the future. The Principal has since retained OPN Architects as the firm to implement the plan. The work addresses
more than 2.3 million square feet of spaces, with the final phase set to be completed in 2018. While not the primary
driver of the project, The Principal had amassed a significant collection of art. Many pieces were displayed across
campus and a significant collection was located in the company’s dedicated gallery space. The Principal wanted open
the gallery space up to more frequent use. The new gallery space offers flexible opportunities for rotating the permanent
collection and spaces for people to engage and enjoy the collection.
PRINCIPAL FINANCIAL GROUP ART GALLERY
In 2009 Polk County hired OPN Architects to renovate and expand Veterans Memorial Auditorium at the Iowa Events
Center and to provide an additional 60,000 sf of meeting, ballroom and exhibit space. The renovation of the 55 year-old
auditorium allows the center to host larger events including state, regional and national conventions and exhibitions. The
dramatic renovation included the removal of 7,200 auditorium seats and creation of a second floor, which provided an
additional 63,000 square feet of meeting and ballroom space inside the auditorium.
The original Veterans Memorial Auditorium was dedicated in 1954 to honor the World War II veterans of Polk County,
Iowa. The renovation honored the building’s legacy with museum quality exhibits in the refreshed Memorial Hall honoring
Iowans who served their country in times of war and peace. Artwork by Des Moines Register’s Pulitzer Prize winning
artist, Ding Darling, highlights the building’s east lobby. In the west lobby, seven new glass panels display events from
the original building including high school graduations, sporting events and a historic visit from Elvis Presley.
COMMUNITY CHOICE CREDIT UNION CONVENTION CENTER
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Exhibit Space
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
Art and Light
Exhibit Space
Public Space
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
Designed to be digitally state-of-the-art, The Iowa Hall of Pride uses high-definition video, music, computer technology and
well-researched history to tell Iowa’s story. Visitors are drawn to experience the history of Iowa through video projected
on a three screen auditorium, the Hall of Fame, and the Hall of Pride, which memorializes the accomplishments of 30
notable Iowans. A 37-exhibit interactive hall invites visitors to learn about each of the athletic and scholarly activities
high school students pursue. Other features include a full-surround mini-theater entitled “The Spirit of Competition”,
multiple digital learning games, and educational kiosks with information about each of the Iowa high schools. Original
artwork in the facility includes life-sized bronze statues, a clay wall-sculpture depicting a recess scene at a country
school, and two 12-by-24-foot stained glass works by Bogenrief Studios of Cherokee.
The design team provided oversight for website content, written graphics, and film content. The final exhibit is a
commissioned sculpture entitled “Everyday Hero”, depicting the role each of us plays in making Iowa a great place to live.
IOWA HALL OF PRIDE
Throughout the restoration of Theatre Cedar Rapids, the architects and interior designers worked to honor the original
artistry of the building’s initial design. Unique, historic details were discovered during flood demolition, such as plaster
molded ceiling within the vestibule that had been covered by a gypsum ceiling, and original painted wall details in the
lobby. These stunningly designed elements informed the paint scheme for the interior, and the details were restored
to their original state. Large chandeliers original to the Iowa Theater Building were relocated, restored and installed
bringing elements of the theater’s historic glamour to light.
One of the most dramatic additions to the space was an expansion of the lobby to include a sophisticated lounge and
event space. Taking advantage of an empty storefront on First Avenue, the designers maximized the space adding a
modern element to the historic theater. Using an urbane mix of materials, textures and finishes the dramatic lounge
offers patrons a comfortable and stylish spot to enjoy a drink and conversation.
THEATRE CEDAR RAPIDS
33 | OPN Architects
Art and Light
Exhibit Space
Public Space
RELEVANCE:
Design-Build
Statement Building
Art and Light
Advanced Environmental Controls
Urban Site
RELEVANCE:
OPN Architects | 34
PROCESS
We understand the scope of the project includes comprehensive design services, beginning with programming and
schematic design through construction for an innovative and technologically advanced University Museum of Art.
The new museum will be located on a downtown Iowa City site at the intersection of Burlington and Clinton Streets,
straddling the edge of downtown and the emerging Riverfront Crossings area. The L-shaped lot wraps around the
Court Street parking structure on the north and west, and is bordered on the south by a new 12-story Hilton Garden
Suites hotel. The new museum will be multi-level and approximately 60,000 gross square feet. The University’s new
School of Music sits across the street to the east. The potential to create a dialogue between the new museum and
the School of Music holds great promise for creating a dynamic urban gateway for the Riverfront Crossings District.
As Architect of Record, we will be responsible for the successful documentation of the project vision while managing
the efforts of the design team.
Our team practices a holistic blend of architecture, planning and design. We have an intentionally diverse list of
clients and we work to provide each of them with exemplary service and innovative design solutions. While our market
types are varied, our approach is clear and consistent. We believe in a collaborative, research-driven approach to
every project. We believe that the success of a project is predicated on our understanding of our client—who they
are, where they are today, and where they want to go tomorrow. We’ve been repeatedly described as excellent
listeners—a comment we take pride in because it means our clients know we care, we pay attention, and the end
result is work that exceeds our clients’ expectations.
WORKING WITH CULTURAL AND ACADEMIC INSTITUTIONS
We work extensively with academic and cultural institutions, including colleges and universities, libraries, schools,
and government entities. We firmly believe good design is important to every aspect of our lives. It shapes the
places in which we learn, work, live, and gather. Our collaborative design process is particularly well-suited to clients
who specialize in the arts as we understand the importance of engaging all stakeholders in the design process. As
our portfolio reflects, our team has designed a wide-array of cultural, performance, and academic spaces. In our
experience, the best institutions present a seamless visitor experience. From the first click on a website to departure
from the site, the entire experience should be carefully considered and developed as an expression of the museum’s
brand. When the entire team responsible for design — graphic, exhibit, and architecture — communicates and
coordinates efforts on a regular basis through design great things happen. Without this coordination, teams may
miss crucial opportunities to create a more memorable and meaningful learning experience. Our proposed leadership
team has experience coordinating and collaborating with exhibit designers and subject-matter experts to ensure a
well-planned, holistic design.
37 | OPN Architects
PROJECT APPROACH
INSPIRATIONAL
First and foremost, the new museum should inspire. The space should express the fundamental principles of innovation, partnership and collaboration between the
creators, participants, and visitors that give rise to art. The technical demands of housing a world-class art collection must be recognized, but the quality of the space — its
materiality and design — must inspire creative work and engage the public’s imagination.
ICONIC / DEMOCRATIC
The new museum will be a flagship for the broader University and Iowa City community. As such, it needs to be a good neighbor and “play well’” with the surrounding
buildings and landscape, while also reflecting the identity of the town and the creative mission of the museum. As a cultural resource for the surrounding area, the building
has the opportunity to form a dialogue with the School of Music to the east and establish a gateway for the Riverfront Crossings District. The new UIMA should be a
welcoming building, engaging a diverse audience from year-round local residents to returning alumni, visiting artists, students, faculty, and staff. The building should be
fundamentally democratic, inviting the outside in and creating a sense of community. Light, transparency, and openness will be balanced with the visual and environmental
controls required to maintain and protect the collection.
FLEXIBLE / ADAPTABLE
Museum buildings are constantly evolving, serving a variety of audiences and shifting expectations. The design of the new museum must be flexible to accommodate
future changes. Temporary exhibitions and the rotation of the permanent collection demands that museums be flexible and adaptable. As technology changes with great
speed , the building must be adaptable to work with the unknown technologies of tomorrow. The desire to host dynamic multimedia and technology-rich installations will
continue to rise and the UIMA will need to adapt programmatically. We will explore designs that maximize the flexibility and adaptability of spaces and strategically locate
infrastructure to allow for system upgrades with minimal disruption to interior activities.
MAGNETIC
In order to function as both a vital part of the University’s academic program and a space for the community, the building must be visibly vibrant and active. Beyond being
a world-class learning laboratory to experience and appreciate art, the UIMA should embrace interstitial, informal spaces that encourage casual creative and intellectual
exchange. The strategic placement of the site offers incredible opportunities to create visible public spaces and lively indoor destinations where people can linger, lounge,
eat, play, collaborate, and dream.
BALANCED / RESPONSIBLE
As a developer-driven project, we must find the balance between design, cost, budget, efficiency, and flexibility. Ultimately, a pro-forma must produce a fair return on
investment for the developer and a tenable lease rate for the tenant. The unique nature of a museum building will require creative problem solving to maintain financial
equilibrium and a design solution that meets or exceeds everyone’s expectations.
OPN Architects | 38
INITIAL THOUGHTS ON DESIGN
R E F I N E
I N T E G R A T E D O C U M E N T
THE ‘AH HA’ MOMENT CONCEPTUAL STUDIES
DEVELOP THE “BIG IDEA”
COST ANALYSIS
E X P L O R E
COMMUNICATE MULTI / SOCIAL MEDIAFUNDRAISING MATERIALSMODELS RENDERINGS
12.22.10EXTERIOR ELEVATIONS Cedar Rapids Public Library
NORTH ELEVATIONSCALE: 1/16” = 1’-0”
EAST ELEVATIONSCALE: 1/16” = 1’-0”
SOUTH ELEVATIONSCALE: 1/16” = 1’-0”
WEST ELEVATIONSCALE: 1/16” = 1’-0”
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
PLANS / ELEVATIONS
CHARRETTES + SKETCHES + IDEA BOXES
ENERGYANALYSIS3D MODELING
SYSTEMS ENGINEERING FURNISHINGS
MATERIALSELECTION SPECS PLANS
D E L I V E R A B L E S
39 | OPN Architects
EXPLORATION
The first step of the design process is the highly collaborative exploration and conceptualizing phase where we study and evaluate numerous concepts utilizing hand drawn
“napkin sketches” that depict the “big idea” for a design. All great designs can be traced back to a simple sketch; often with a half dozen pen strokes that say it all. These
sketches lead to more defined conceptual studies that are generally a combination of sketches and early 3D computer graphics. Studying and manipulating these images
ultimately leads to the “ah ha” moment where the design begins to take shape.
REFINEMENT
This is a critical period of advancing the design, second-guessing, challenging, and distilling to ensure that the final design is pure and purposeful, and that it can be
delivered on budget. The design concept iterates rapidly during refinement. A preliminary cost analysis is conducted at the close of this stage.
COMMUNICATION
The design of this project must be shared and communicated effectively. It is important that we tell the story in a clear and easily understood manner. For the UIMA, we will
provide colored renderings, built models, and bound reports that include narratives of the proposed materials and engineering systems. We utilize sophisticated building
models that contain every detail of the building and are available for viewing at the touch of an app. Walk-throughs and design review will be available at every stage of the
design, and can be reviewed in a conference room setting, or even by an interested community member on their iPad with 3D glasses. This powerful tool allows the design
to be understood quickly and thoroughly by all parties.
INTEGRATION
The difference between a good design and a great design is that the great designs are able to seamlessly integrate the technical, engineering, sustainable, and furnishing
requirements into a cohesive design that remains pure and true to the vision. The design team will utilize BIM modeling to integrate all of these components into an
integrated 3D computer model. This tool is used from day one and allows us to be highly collaborative with the client as we begin to make detailed decisions on materials,
light fixtures, power / data needs, and more.
DOCUMENTATION
The last step of the design process, prior to bidding and construction, is the creation of accurate and complete construction drawings and specifications. Our goal on
every project is to form or reinforce a strong and trusting relationship with our client. We recognize that the projects we work on represent a significant investment of
time, energy and finances. We are committed to being good stewards of our client’s resources and we believe that authoring clear, detailed documents can help ensure
successful results.
DESIGN DEVELOPMENT
OPN Architects | 40
41 | OPN Architects
OPN Architects | 42
Quality control is a process, not an event. We tailor our procedures to the needs of each individual project in order to address specific project requirements, its location, the client and community.
DEDICATED TEAM
Quality assurance begins with the selection of a core team of dedicated and experienced professionals who will remain with the project from start to finish. This continuity
of staff reduces redundancy and the potential for miscommunication and delay. In addition to the core design team, we typically include our consultant array in design
conversations from day one. We believe this helps set the tone for quality control and consistency moving forward.
TRANSPARENT PROCESS
Once the project scope has been outlined, we will work with Mortenson to develop a specific Quality Control plan that defines the schedule and budget parameters. Our
design process, from concept to issuance of bid documents, is a highly collaborative and integrated effort. The Mortenson / OPN team work closely together in order to
resolve differing perspectives before they escalate to the level of “conflict” or “problems”. Optimal solutions are achieved by actively maintaining a healthy balance between
the perspectives and interests of all parties. If a discrepancy arises we revisit the design choices in an attempt to isolate a cause or identify a potential cost savings.
Detailed cost estimates completed at each stage of a project are invaluable to making sure that all parties are on the same page when it comes to cost.
CHANGE ORDERS
Change order control is essential to maintaining a project’s overall budget. Although some changes in the contract are almost unavoidable, we strive to minimize change
orders during the construction period. We know that a complete and accurate set of construction documents will reduce the need for change orders significantly. In
addition, the design-build approach to this project will reduce the impact of change orders. On a typical project, we maintain a log for Requests for Information, Instructions
to Contractors, and Change Authorization Requests. This has proven to be an effective way to monitor the flow of information, decisions reached, and financial impact of
each. The design team participates actively in RFI’s and ITC’s.
INTERNAL REVIEW
For every project, regardless of delivery method, we assign an experienced construction administrator to serve as a “second set of eyes” on our document and drawings.
For this project, Jim Koch would provide in-house review services. Jim has more than 25 years of experience in Iowa. He serves as an important layer of our Quality
Assurance process by looking at a set of plans through contractor’s eyes, making sure that such things as phasing and erecting are being fully considered. If he has a
concern, he gives feedback to the team to ensure that the right decisions are being made. The result is a professional and predictable design process which substantially
reduces the risk of cost or schedule overruns. Importantly, our design partners and consultants share our commitment to this process. OPN’s track record on cost control
is impressive, averaging 7% under bid over the last five years of public projects.
QUALITY CONTROL
FEE STRUCTURE
45 | OPN Architects
Our proposal is based on our understanding of the selected site, the site constraints, a preliminary museum space
program of 60,000 gsf on multiple levels, and an estimated budget range of $25-$35 million. In considering our fee
proposal, we looked at other design-build pursuits of similar scope where a definitive program and budget had not
been fully developed. Based on those models, we offer the following for your consideration:
1. SITE MASTER PLANNING - 7 WEEKS Lump Sum Fee: $40,500
Anticipates assistance of Civil Engineer and Landscape Architect (OPN Only)
2. PROGRAMMING - 4 WEEKS Lump Sum Fee: $23,750
Anticipates museum specialist will lead this effort (OPN Only)
3. SCHEMATIC DESIGN THROUGH COMPLETION OF CONSTRUCTION Fee Range: 3.25%-4.0%
The fees listed above include all reimbursable expenses for OPN Architects. Printing plans and specifications are not
included.
OPN Architects | 46
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
STUDIOS
Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Des Moines, Iowa
Madison, Wisconsin
SERVICES
Architecture
Interior Design
Landscape Design
FIRM AWARDS
2014 Architectural Record ‘Top 100 Architectrual Firms’
2014 Des Moines Register Iowa ‘Top Workplace Achiever’
2013 ZweigWhite National ‘Best Firms to Work For’
OUR TEAM
As a 110-person firm with a 35-year track record of success, OPN is one of the largest architectural firms in the
country. We’ve won wide recognition for our design work and are listed by Architectural Record in the top 100 Design
Firms nationally. We believe that our success is the result of a deliberate, sustained commitment to an open culture
that nurtures excellence and new ideas. We collaborate closely during planning and design phases in our office. We
camp out in teaming rooms during intensive periods of research and design. We document our ideas with layers
of trace paper, sticky notes, photos and boards. We workshop ideas together during weekly design critiques. We
understand that physical space can foster or inhibit collaboration and innovation and we believe passionately that
success lies in bringing people and perspectives together. We encourage open dialogue and as a team, we find the
optimal design solution for our clients.
COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT
At the center of our core values is our shared commitment to community involvement. OPN is deeply invested in the
well-being of the community and often donates time, talent and money to community organizations in need. Since
the company’s inception, OPN’s leadership has been instrumental in supporting community initiatives. From serving
with the United Way as Campaign Chairs and Board Members, to helping start charitable organizations such as
100-Plus Men and 100-Plus Women Who Care and the I Have a Dream Foundation, OPN’s team members set the
tone for the company’s commitment to philanthropy. As a firm, we regularly undertake pro-bono projects that benefit
our community. Office-wide we annually support Habitat for Humanity, Canstruction and United Way. Our designers
serve on boards and committees for national and state-level professional organizations and have been recognized for
their advocacy in architectural and civic life.
COMMITMENT TO THE REGION
As residents of the area, we care deeply about what happens in our region. Our work with the University of Iowa,
University of Iowa Hospital and Clinics, and many corporate clients in Iowa City gives us a unique perspective on what
it means to live and work in Iowa City. We believe strongly that supporting the growth and cultivation of Iowa City’s
downtown urban core is essential for the economic and cultural vitality of the region.
FIRM PROFILEHabitat for Humanity
Salvation Army
Firm Retreat | Chicago
49 | OPN Architects
We are honored to have been recognized both nationally and internationally for excellence in aesthetics, design,
creativity, function, and satisfaction of the client’s objectives in architecture, interior design and landscape
architecture design. Projects completed by members of the proposed design team are noted with an asterisk.
CEDAR RAPIDS PUBLIC LIBRARY *
2014 Merit Award, AIA Central States Region
2014 Honorable Mention, ALA IIDA
2014 Design is...Award, Shaw Contract Group
2014 Best Curb Appeal, GALE
2014 Merit Award, Illuminating Engineering Society
2014 First Place, ASHRAE Technology Award
PARAMOUNT THEATRE *
2014 Merit Award, AIA Central States Region
2014 Architizer A+ Awards
2013 Honor Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
2013 Silver Award, 30th Annual Recon. Awards
DELTA DENTAL OF IOWA *
2013 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
BRIGHT GRANDVIEW CLUBHOUSE *
2012 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
STATE HYGIENIC LABORATORY,
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA *
2012 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
RAND PARK PAVILION
2012 Design Award, ASLA Iowa Chapter
CARNEGIE STOUT PUBLIC LIBRARY *
2011 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
2011 Silver Award, IIDA Great Plains Chapter
OPN ARCHITECTS, DES MOINES *
2011 Merit Award, AIA Central States
2010 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
OPN ARCHITECTS, CEDAR RAPIDS *
2009 Merit Award, AIA Central States
2008 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
2008 Best of Show, AIA Great Plains Chapter
JOHN DEERE HARVESTER WORKS *
2009 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
HOTEL AT KIRKWOOD *
2009 Gold Award, IIDA Great Plains Chapter
2011 Best of Show, International Interior
Design Association, Great Plains Chapter
OLD CAPITOL RESTORATION,
UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
2006 Merit Award, AIA Iowa Chapter
2004 Excellence Award, Society for College
and University Planning
HNI / GUNLOCKE HEADQUARTERS *
2009 Gold Award, IIDA Great Plains Chapter
DESIGN AWARDS
OPN Architects | 50
DESIGN BUILD
The Design-Build delivery method begins by selecting an integrated project design and construction team to
collaboratively discover and document your facility programming needs, and then design and construct your facility to
meet hose needs. All of the key team members are brought to the planning table and work together to develop the best
solutions to meet your needs, in the most cost effective and highest value manner. In addition to inclusion of key University
personnel and appropriate stakeholders, our project team includes the project designers, and specialty consultants, and
specialty industry experts. All project team members will understand the University’s objectives and expectations from
the onset of project planning, and are then held accountable to deliver the project design and construction in accordance
with those established performance and prescriptive expectations.
We have more than 25-years of experience working with the Design-Build delivery method. While design-build can
take many forms, our project team approaches every design-build project with the goal of maximizing the value to the
customer within a fixed budget. We accomplish this goal through an interactive process with our customer intimately
involved in the decision-making. We have an obligation to provide value-based alternatives throughout the design
development. We openly share cost opinions and recommendations while empowering our customer to participate in the
entire procurement process and assist in subcontractor selection. It is not our role to solely determine how the project
budget is applied.
A highlighted list of some of our design-build work is below:
51 | OPN Architects
John Deere Worldwide Financial Headquarters
Intermec Technologies
Mercy Hall Perrine Cancer Center
Collabrance, GreatAmerica Financial
CRST Center
John Deere Corporate Aviation Hangar
John Deere Collectors Center
John Deere Healthcare Headquarters
John Deere Commons
John Deere Distribution Centers
Mississippi Plaza
NCMIC Group, Inc.
Rockwell Collins, Building 130
Bass Street Landing
Sentry Insurance
Mercy Hospice House of Mercy
Cedar Crossings Casino
GreatAmerica Building
McLeod / Busse IMAX Theatre
Radisson Hotel / TGI Fridays
Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust
Delta Dental of Iowa
HNI / Gunlocke Corporate Headquarters
Pioneer Hi-Bred Crescent Phase I
Pioneer Hi-Bred Crescent Phase II
Theatre Cedar Rapids
Bioventures Center
OPN Architects embraces the idea of broad and balanced sustainability. We design to increase value and reduce impact
to the environment — never settling for one or the other. Our experience includes dozens of high performance buildings
certified by the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) program. We’ve
also adopted the American Institute of Architecture’s “2030 Commitment” to achieve carbon-neutral buildings by 2030.
Our focus on sustainability has led to the design of user-friendly facilities that perform very well.
We believe sustainability is as much about people as it is about buildings. Forty-five members of our architectural staff
are LEED certified and deeply experienced in sustainable design. They apply their collective knowledge to optimize
the building from the very first steps in the design process. Sustainable design strategies are transforming the way we
design and detail facilities and are having a dramatic effect on the success of facilities as measured by operational cost,
user experience and environmental impact.
ENVIRONMENTAL RESPONSIBILITY
OPN Architects | 52
PLATINUM
Cedar Rapids Public Library
GOLD
Biorenewables Research Laboratory
Corporate Daycare
Design Engineers Office Building
Hach Hall Chemistry Building
HNI / Gunlocke Corporate Headquarters
John Deere Financial Worldwide Headquarters
Pioneer-Hi Bred Crescent Phase II
Prairiewoods Spirituality Retreat Center
Rockwell Collins Building 130
Rockwell Collins Building 131
STAMATS Headquarters
State Hygienic Laboratory
United States Courthouse, Cedar Rapids
Williamsburg Public Library
SILVER
Carnegie-Stout Public Library
Delta Dental of Iowa Corporate Headquarters
Des Moines Fire Training & Logistics
KJWW Expansion
Linn County Options Building
Washington Free Public Library
CERTIFIED
Bright Grandview Clubhouse
Mercy Hall-Perrine Cancer Center