Drake University and Iowa Architectural Foundation to host event celebrating Meredith Hall
The Iowa Architectural Foundation and Drake University School of Journalism and Mass Communication will host a special event Celebrating Meredith Hall: A Mies Masterpiece Renewed on October 12, 2024, at Meredith Hall on Drake University campus.
The event will celebrate and benefit the ongoing restoration and preservation efforts for Meredith Hall, one of Iowa’s most iconic 1965 architectural landmarks designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe.
Bringing unique expertise in both historic structures and student-centered environments, BNIM collaborated with Drake University on a feasibility study and revitalization efforts. Our team is committed to carefully preserving the historic character and design integrity of Meredith Hall while enhancing energy efficiencies, infrastructure updates, and sustainability improvements, to support the modern needs and future modes of learning, collaboration, and interaction for the School of Journalism and Mass Communication.
Highlights of the event will include:
Social Hour & Docent Stations: Starting at 7 p.m, guests will enjoy a complimentary glass of wine or beer while exploring the beautifully restored interiors of Meredith Hall. Docents will be stationed to share insights about its design and history.
BNIM Q&A: Learn from the experts at BNIM about the intricate 2022-2023 restoration project. The revitalization included key infrastructure updates, sustainability improvements, and enhancements to the learning environment—all while preserving Mies’s original vision.
Knoll Furniture Display: Capture a selfie at the modern furniture display, sponsored by Pigott and MillerKnoll, specially curated as an homage to Mies and Saarinen furniture designs of the Modernist movement. Florence has always credited Mies as her most influential mentor, and, in 1948, Mies granted Knoll exclusive rights to produce his furniture.
Exhibit: Dive into the rich history of Meredith Hall with a digital exhibit showcasing original blueprints, photographs, and artifacts that reveal its architectural significance.
Special Access to Scott Chapel: Guests will also have the rare opportunity to visit the Oreon E. Scott Chapel, a modernist treasure designed by Eero Saarinen and dedicated in 1955.
Documentary Screening: At 8 p.m, settle in for an exclusive screening of the 2023 documentary The Mies van der Rohes, offering an intimate look at Mies’s life and work through the eyes of his eldest daughter.
Midmod attire is optional but encouraged! Tickets for the event are available for purchase here.
