Text description provided by the architects. Through sensitive demolition and re-calibration, this small mixed-use project leverages a century-old commercial building’s capacity for re-use. The dynamic result enlivens an urban neighborhood by embracing its history, engaging the street, and fostering a vibrant tenant mix.

Section

At the sidewalk a glazed, black-anodized aluminum storefront insert supports the bulk of the masonry face above. The storefront’s carefully considered composition, emphatically modern, conforms to the upper facade’s historic proportions and bay rhythms. Its glass expanse gathers views into the naturally lit, warmly tactile interior. Throughout the renovation, a culling of framing and finishes highlights the building’s eccentric old masonry shell. Reset floor levels and strategically threaded connections usher in light, air, and views.

Plans

The building accommodates two tenants. A retail business operates the street level and basement, while the second and third floors provide for live/work occupation. The new ground floor, set slightly above sidewalk level, lends head height to what had been a compressed basement. A broad gap at the storefront establishes a bridge-like entry while letting in light to the lower floor and introducing verticality to its tight quarters. Both levels now breathe together as programmable space. On the live/work floors above, a perforated bent-steel stair anchors the layout and provides visual continuity. The addition of a third floor and rooftop patio provides a lofty perch above the city’s vibrant streetscape.

© Integrated Studio

• Architects

  Neumann Monson Architects

• Location

  Iowa City, Iowa, United States

• Category

  Offices Interiors

• Contractor

  TD Builders

• Structural Engineer

  Raker Rhodes Engineering

• Area

  4000.0 ft2

• Project Year

  2015

• Photographs

  Integrated Studio