Thursday / July 09, 2015 / 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
After the Flood: Cedar Rapids Veterans Memorial Building Transformed
AIA Chicago, 35 East Wacker Drive, #250
The Cedar Rapids Veterans Memorial Building/City Hall was constructed in 1927 on Mays Island in the Cedar River, to a design by Henry Hornbostel, FAIA (1867–1961) of Pittsburgh, known for his institutional buildings.
Following World War II, City Hall functions expanded throughout the building, replacing community functions. The auditorium became an arena.
In 2008, Cedar Rapids experienced an epic flood that put a thousand city blocks under water.
Paul Alt, AIA (Alt Architecture + Research Associates LLC) became a consultant to the City, leading the architects and engineers providing damage assessment and flood mitigation proposals for all public buildings.
After the flood, city government relocated to a former federal courthouse. In 2010, Paul was hired to plan the rehabilitation and transformation of the Veterans Memorial Building into a place exclusively for veterans and community services. The scope included restoration of the auditorium, ballroom, and a commemorative hall that features the only stained glass window designed by Iowa artist Grant Wood. Also included was a conference center, restaurant, food pantry, veterans museum, behavioral health and physical therapy spaces, bathrooms and locker rooms, workout rooms, serving kitchen for 500; and redesign of the public green and parking garage.
Hear from Paul how this dramatic transformation was achieved and a significant civic asset returned to its community. Bring your lunch; beverages provided.
