The University of Iowa is set to begin a $37 million renovation of its historic Art Building, severely damaged by the 2008 floods, to create a new home for the Graduate College, College of Education—Art Education and Maker Space, and the School of Planning and Public Affairs.

The renovation, approved by the Iowa Board of Regents, will address $10 million in maintenance costs and is expected to be completed by July 2026. This transformation is part of the university’s ongoing revitalization efforts, with construction set to begin in December.

The Art Building, built in 1936, was one of 22 buildings on campus affected by the 2008 floods. Despite significant damage, the building was preserved for restoration rather than being demolished. The University of Iowa partnered with FEMA to ensure the historic structure was revitalized. Rod Lehnertz, Senior Vice President for Finance and Operations at the University of Iowa, emphasized the importance of maintaining the building’s historic integrity, stating, “With the modernization of the building, first and foremost, we will be reverent to its history and how it looks.”

Once the renovation is completed, the Art Building will house several academic units, including the Graduate College, College of Education—Art Education and Maker Space, and the School of Planning and Public Affairs. The $37 million project will improve the building’s flood resilience, with critical systems moved to the second floor to avoid damage in the event of future floods.

Lehnertz reflected on the building's current state, noting, “It’s been 16 years since the building was occupied, and it looks frozen in time from the summer of 2008. It’s a sad thing to see today, but what is about to emerge from this is a wonderful thing.”

The renovation is expected to be completed by July 2026, bringing new life to this historical building while also ensuring its preparedness for future flood events.