IOWA CITY, IA — The University of Iowa recently celebrated the official topping out of its new Health Sciences Academic Building (HSAB). This traditional construction milestone signals the completion of the building's structural framework, bringing the university one step closer to enhancing its health sciences education infrastructure. Part of a 10-year master plan to expand and modernize the campus, the Health Sciences Academic Building, designed by RDG Planning & Design, is a key component of the university's strategic plan to advance health sciences education and research.
"This topping-out ceremony marks a significant day in the construction of the Health Sciences Academic Building," said Steve King, AIA, RDG Architect and Partner. "The design of this building reflects our commitment to creating spaces that foster learning, collaboration, and innovation. We're honored to work with the University of Iowa to bring their vision to life and support the next generation of health sciences professionals."
RDG's design creates learning spaces for future growth and supports the university’s ability to attract and retain students and faculty. A trio of fundamental principles influences RDG's design: continuing a cohesive campus, developing relationships with the site, and establishing an architecture that reflects the innovative nature of the programs within. Set to be fully completed in summer 2026, the design for the new building encompasses seven stories and 263,000 square feet of academic, administrative, clinical, and research space for three of the university's major departments: Communication Sciences and Disorders, Physical Therapy Rehabilitation Sciences, and Health and Human Physiology.
Once complete, the HSAB will serve both users and the greater campus academic and student community with innovative spaces that advance health science education in Iowa. RDG is partnering with several firms to bring this project to fruition, including Design Engineers, KPFF Consulting Engineers, and Threshold Acoustics, as well as Miron Construction Company Inc. as the construction manager.
