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Elizabeth Catlett Residence Hall, University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
Elizabeth Catlett Hall, University of Iowa
Student life, riverside.
Creating on-campus community.
Staying connected.
A celebrated sculptor and printmaker, in 1940 University of Iowa alumna Elizabeth Catlett became the first African American woman to earn a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) degree in the United States. Named in her honor, Elizabeth Catlett Hall not only celebrates her life and legacy, but also addresses a critical shortage of university undergraduate housing.

Strong support indicates that the interconnectedness, inclusivity and social bonds established by living on-campus positively impact undergraduate students’ well-being and performance. But the University, previously operating at 100% housing capacity, was unable to offer on-campus housing to all undergraduates, prompting many to secure off-campus accommodations.

Overcoming the twin challenges of FAA height restrictions and flood plains, HED’s design for the new residence hall incorporates an additional floor, increasing the unit count from 900 to 1049 despite the stringent spatial limitations.

Located alongside the peaceful Iowa River, the new hall includes permanent exhibits of Catlett’s work, as well as a dining hall, fitness center, study rooms and six living-learning communities, with plans to develop additional outdoor spaces. Designed to maximize both its natural setting and proximity to the university’s undergraduate core, the building features calming river views from every room, while pedestrian, public transit and bike routes interweave the new structure with the existing campus, ensuring student safety and creating a seamless exchange between campus and residence.

The result? Learning that extends far beyond the classroom, a strengthened sense of connectivity and belonging, and a supportive, surrounding campus community that ensures every resident feels truly at home.
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Results
A dining hall, fitness center and cozy study rooms create an all-inclusive residence hall that encourages student interaction and engagement and supports academic success.
Bike paths, CAMBUS route access and a pedestrian walkway to and from campus simplify transportation needs, ensuring student safety and establishing a strong link between the campus and residence hall.
The first University of Iowa residence hall positioned alongside the Iowa River, Elizabeth Catlett Hall provides astounding views of both the river and the campus.
The peaceful setting and convenient amenities establish a comfortable, relaxing environment that supports students’ well-being.
A residence hall is intended to serve as a home away from home … [a] place where students are able to build community, learn more about each other, articulate their dreams and their goals to their peers.”
Melissa Shivers
Vice President for Student Life
University of Iowa
Creating on-campus community.
Elizabeth Catlett Residence Hall, University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
PROJECT DATA

LEED Gold

2018

Student life, riverside.