University of Iowa Motorcoach Tour

Join us for an exciting and informative day exploring the architectural gems of the University of Iowa campus! The day begins in Des Moines, where our group will board a bus for a comfortable morning departure. En route to Iowa City, attendees will enjoy an engaging presentation by esteemed architect Steve Stimmel, AIA, setting the stage for the day’s architectural journey.

Upon arrival in Iowa City, we will gather at the renowned Hancher Auditorium for a delicious box lunch, providing a moment to relax and take in the surroundings. The walking tour will kick off at 1:00 PM, led by Mark Seabold, AIA, LEED AP, of Shive-Hattery Architecture+Engineering.

Explore the campus’s most iconic and innovative buildings, including:

• Hancher Auditorium – Designed by Pelli Clark Pelli Architects
• Art Building West – By Steven Holl Architects
• Visual Arts Building – By Steven Holl Architects
• Iowa Advanced Technology Laboratories – Designed by Frank O. Gehry
• Pappajohn Business Building – By Architectural Resources
• Old Capitol Complex/Pentacrest – John F. Rague (Old Capitol), Proudfoot & Bird / Proudfoot Bird & Rawson (Schaeffer, Macbride, MacLean & Jessup Halls)
• Park 201 – Designed by Neumann Monson Architects
• Voxman Music Building – By LMN Architects
• Stanley Museum of Art – Designed by bnim

The tour will wrap up by the 3:00 PM departure, allowing ample time for the return trip to Des Moines (and a light afternoon snack), where we will arrive by 5:00 PM. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to delve into the architectural beauty and history of the University of Iowa, guided by experts in the field.

This event is perfect for architecture enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone interested in the blend of history, art, and innovation that defines the University of Iowa campus. Ticket price includes transportation to and from Des Moines, A/V presentation, walking tour, box lunch, and snack.

The tour will launch outside the Iowa Center for Architecture at 400 Locust St. (Capital Square), Des Moines. Early-bird tickets (purchased by Sept. 14th) are $150, $170 thereafter. Check-in will open at 8:30AM and the bus will depart promptly at 9:00AM, rain or shine. Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended.

About your guides:

Mark Seabold, AIA, LEED AP:

Mark Seabold began his architectural career in Iowa City 31 years ago upon graduating from Iowa State University. After working for several architectural firms, he joined Shive-Hattery 23 years ago, where he has since become a Principal Architect and leader of the Commercial Development Architectural Studio in the Iowa City office. Mark has been deeply involved in the arts and architectural community, serving as Board Chair of Iowa City’s Public Art program, President of The University of Iowa’s Museum of Art - Members Council, and currently as a Board member of the Housing Fellowship. He is also on the Iowa City Board of Review.

Over the years, Mark has witnessed the construction of numerous beautiful new buildings on The University of Iowa’s campus, both before and after the 2008 flood, as well as in downtown Iowa City. Many of these projects were designed by signature architects, with local architects playing a supporting role. He has also taken every opportunity to explore some of the stunning interior spaces when possible. Mark is passionate about architecture and looks forward to leading a tour of significant buildings in downtown Iowa City and The University of Iowa’s campus.

Steve Stimmel, AIA:

Steve Stimmel, AIA was born in Iowa City where he also attended high school. During his student years at Iowa State University, Steve was employed by the University of Iowa Architect’s Office during several summer and holiday breaks. He witnessed the construction of the first Hancher/Voxman Building and multiple medical campus buildings designed by high-profile firms. Following 10 years at a Burlington architectural firm, Steve joined BBS, the successor firm to Proudfoot and Bird et. al. in Des Moines that designed over 30 buildings on the University of Iowa campus beginning in 1897. Following his retirement from the BBS partnership, Steve enjoys historic preservation consulting and making presentations about Iowa’s architectural history for IAF and the Des Moines Historical Society.

Proceeds from this event will help fund the Iowa Architectural Foundation's programming and our mission to increase the public’s awareness of the value of architecture to Iowa communities. For more information about tours, classes, and special events, visit www.iowaarchfoundation.org or https://www.facebook.com/iowaarchfoundation/.

Host or Publisher Iowa Architectural Foundation (IAF)