The new 17,000 SF Tom and Ruth Harkin Center is designed to serve as a distinguished landmark on the Drake University campus in Des Moines, Iowa. Founded in 2013, the Harkin Institute seeks to improve the lives of all Americans by giving policymakers access to high-quality information and engaging citizens as active participants in the formation of public policy. It promotes understanding of the issues to which former Senator Tom Harkin devoted his career, including his historic legislation, the Americans with Disabilities Act.

The facility sets a new  standard for universal and inclusive design. Features include: a two-story ramp that will serve as the primary, common path between floors for all building users; generously sized circulation spaces to support sign-language conversations and multiple wheelchair-users; high-contrast and textural cues for low-vision individuals; gender-inclusive restrooms; and close proximity between accessible parking spaces and the building’s front entrance. The building program also includes an auditorium, gallery and event space, research space, and a spectrum of spaces for work and collaboration.

The design process has holistically incorporated sustainable design strategies throughout, including storm water management and native landscape to daylighting, energy efficiency, and focus on interior occupant health, wellness, and productivity. The building is designed for the future installation of photovoltaics on the building roof and parking canopies to produce more energy than the building will consume of a yearly basis.

The new building is an inclusive, equitable space that embodies the values of The Harkin Institute. According to Senator Harkin, the space will give life to the organizations mission statement, informing, inspiring, creating cooperation, and catalyzing change related to issues of social justice, fairness, and opportunity.