Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences opens a new 88-acre campus
By Novid Parsi, Contributing Editor
Des Moines University Medicine and Health Sciences has opened a new campus spanning 88 acres, over three times larger than its previous location.
Designed by RDG Planning & Design and built by Turner Construction, the $260 million campus features technology-rich, flexible educational spaces that promote innovative teaching methods, expand research activity, and enhance clinical services. The campus includes four buildings connected with elevated pathways and totaling 382,000 sf.
The five-floor Edge of Advancement building serves as the front door to the campus and includes administration, event and learning commons, alum hall, and student support spaces. The Innovation building includes academic and dining programs, as well as a simulation center where students can practice providing care and performing surgery. And the Health and Wellbeing building offers recreation facilities, clinic, and counseling suites. The project also includes a campus support building with parking.
The new campus, which has achieved LEED Silver certification, has 700 geothermal wells for energy-efficient systems. With significantly reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions, the project achieves a 56% reduction in electric use and 65% reduction in embodied carbon.
To promote mental health and wellbeing, the campus integrates multiple green and gathering spaces. The site features a new pond and connects with local trails.
“With its 125-year legacy of excellence in medical and health science education, DMU has long been leading the way in holistic healthcare education,” Mike Houston, RDG planner and senior partner, said in a statement. “Collaborating with the university on this project allowed us to push the boundaries of what a health sciences campus can achieve.”
Founded in 1898, DMU comprises three colleges offering 10 graduate degrees in medical and health sciences.
On the building team:
Design architect and architect of record: RDG Planning & Design
MEP engineer: IMEG
Structural engineer: KPFF
Construction manager: Turner Construction
