BBS Architects Engineers

Iowa State University

ETRC Howe Hall
ETRC Howe Hall
ETRC Howe Hall
ETRC Howe Hall

Consulting Architects: Ellerbe Becket
Structural Engineering: BBS Architects | Engineers 
Mechanical/Electrical Engineering: Ellerbe Becket
Construction Completed: 2000
Project Data: 170,000 GSF
Construction Cost: $29 million 

Howe Hall was the first of two buildings for the Engineering Teaching and Research Complex (ETRC). The building includes an area specifically designed for wind tunnel research. BBS collaborated with Ellerbe Becket in the design of the Engineering Teaching and Research Complex (ETRC). This major project achieves a dramatic presence on the west side of the campus. Building forms interact with each other, and the landscape, to express images of fluid dynamics. The second building, Hoover Hall, is connected by a skywalk to Howe Hall and opens to a large green space that celebrates the Marston Water Tower and engages Marston Hall.

Included in the buildings are a diverse and interactive group of functions:

  • Aerospace Engineering and Engineering Mechanics
  • Virtual Reality Applications Center (including the cutting edge C6 fully immersive virtual environment)
  • Center for Industrial Research and Service
  • Materials Science Engineering
  • Engineering Computer Systems Support
  • Mechanical Engineering
  • Industrial and Manufacturing Systems Engineering
  • General Use Classrooms and Auditorium (430 seat)
  • Distance Learning Classrooms
  • Teaching and Research Laboratories for large equipment and benchtop work
  • Specialized Use Classrooms (computer applications) and Auditorium (265 seat)

An extensive mechanical, electrical and communications infrastructure is required to meet the needs of these groups. The complex is designed to be adaptable to the changing needs of the Engineering College. Spaces are organized around atrium spaces to optimize daily interaction.

Hoover Hall represents the final component of the Engineering Teaching and Research Complex. Serving as a primary link to the Engineering campus, the exterior and interior design provides a holistic, unified appearance and experience with the first phase of the complex, Howe Hall.

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Corporate Highrise
ETRC Hoover Hall
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Hub Tower Elevator Modernization
Dodge House Renovations
Corporate Headquarters
Iowa City Federal Building - VHA Renovations
Extension 4-H Youth Building
Levitt Center for University Advancement
Home Office Building with Expansion
Hub Tower Conference Center
Chemistry Building Addition & Renovation
Executive Suites Renovation
Biological Sciences Facility
Food Sciences Building - Room 2379 Renovation
IADA Office Renovation
Hospital Emergency Room Renovation & Expansion
Camp Dodge Chapel Addition and Renovation
Union Drive Community Center Renovations
Office Renovation
Terminal
Reid “E” Research Facility
New Office
Covered Walkway
Beardshear Hall Remodeling
Corporate Headquarters Renovation
VRAC C6 and Office Suite
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Sabin Hall Renovation – LEED Gold
Goodnow Hall Restoration & Renovation
MacKay Hall Auditorium Renovation
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