Tom and Ruth Harkin Center

The Tom and Ruth Harkin Center aims to embody the Harkin Institute’s values and mission by setting a new standard in Inclusive Design and engaging the University and community in a dialogue of equity and empathy. The strategies for inclusive design implemented in the Tom and Ruth Harkin Center support all building users’ experiences, implementing principles of generous space, equitable experiences, clear path, and individual empowerment. Generous spaces ensure individuals do not have to ask for accommodations, providing appropriate path widths and places to rest. Equitable experiences create necessary functional solutions in the most inclusive way possible. Design features such as meeting rooms with circular table arrangements and single-user restroom access help demonstrate how to provide equal opportunities for all building users. A clear path allows for an environment that is intuitive to the building user, from how an individual enters a building to how room signage communicates the right information in an effective, accessible format. Individual empowerment means there are no limitations in one’s ability to use a space. This means providing spaces such as wellness rooms or creating variety in furniture configurations to allow for choice throughout a facility.