Before relocating, the new center was renovated and updated by a team from OPN Architects’ Iowa City studio. As part of OPN’s 40th anniversary in 2019, the firm committed to support local organizations by donating time, talent, and funds to a design project in the each of the four communities where OPN is located. In Iowa City, the staff worked with NAMI to refresh a former law office.
“We wanted to work with an organization that makes a big impact with few resources,” says Iowa City-based Principal Justin Bishop. “NAMI was exactly the type of group we knew we could help with sweat equity, design insights, and technical knowledge. This project is proof that small changes to spaces can elevate daily experiences.”
Most activities take place in a central open space now conducive to gathering with soft seating and tables. There is opportunity for privacy in two additional spaces – dubbed the relaxation and meditation rooms. The renovation also included a kitchenette and board room. Throughout, shades of blue and green ties the space together and create a bright, light feel through furniture, paint, and carpet tiles – much of which was donated by Diamond Vogel (paint) and Tallgrass (furniture).
