The Iowa flood of 2008 ruined many buildings beyond repair, including four structures on the University of Iowa’s campus. One of these structures, Hancher Auditorium, was the leading performing arts presenter in the state and was known for commissioning many national and international artists to create and perform dance and theater.
After the floodwaters receded, FEMA determined the auditorium could not be salvaged and needed to be replaced. FEMA funded a substantial portion of the auditorium’s rebuilding with Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects receiving the sought after commission.
Now, Hancher Auditorium has become the first of the four newly constructed campus buildings to open. The building’s design uses sweeping horizontal forms that are meant to mimic the landscape and the curve of the river. Two parallel forms cantilever at the south end of the building with floor-to-ceiling glass walls offering panoramic views of the neighboring campus and river. The cantilevers create two overhangs, one for the lobby and one for the second-story terrace.
The new Hancher Auditorium officially opened on Sept. 9.
Photo courtesy of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects
Photo courtesy of Pelli Clarke Pelli Architects
Related Stories
University Buildings | Mar 7, 2018
New living/learning community replaces two outdated residence halls at Emporia State University
KWK Architects designed the project.
University Buildings | Feb 16, 2018
The University of Washington receives a new Nanoengineering and Sciences Building
The building marks the second phase of a 168,000-sf complex.
University Buildings | Feb 9, 2018
University of Missouri’s new dining experience lessens food waste and inventory
The project was designed by KWK Architects.
University Buildings | Jan 31, 2018
Report: Spending spree on new buildings a risky venture for some U.S. universities
Higher education institutions continue to add new buildings in spite of increased stress on facilities management budgets, according to a new report from Sightlines.
Healthcare Facilities | Jan 29, 2018
The new Virginia Tech Biomedical Research Addition will include research facilities in five thematic areas
The project is a collaboration between Carilion Clinic and Virginia Tech.
University Buildings | Jan 22, 2018
University of Copenhagen’s new research building focuses on energy efficiency
C. F. Møller designed the building.
University Buildings | Jan 19, 2018
A 360-degree classroom highlights Washington State University’s new academic innovation hub
The circle-in-the-round classroom can accommodate 275 students.
University Buildings | Jan 18, 2018
New living/learning facility at the University of Illinois at Chicago breaks ground
Solomon Cordwell Buenz (SCB) designed the facility.
Game Changers | Jan 12, 2018
‘Kit of parts’ anchors university’s remake
Sasaki designs interchangeable spaces to support a major educational shift at Mexico’s largest university system.
Education Facilities | Jan 8, 2018
Three former school buildings are repurposed to create mini-campus for teacher education
The $25.3 million project is currently under construction on the Winona State University campus.