The new Gerdin Business Building expansion at Iowa State University was designed to strengthen the way the Ivy College of Business learns, collaborates, and prepares students for the future. From the beginning, the goal was clear — create an environment that supports modern teaching methods, encourages connection across departments, and gives students and faculty spaces built to perform at a high level every single day.

BNIM and Story Construction aligned early as a fully integrated design-build team, creating a process centered around communication, coordination, and problem-solving from day one. Using LEAN construction principles, the team focused on making smart decisions early, eliminating unnecessary rework, and keeping momentum strong throughout the life of the project. Every phase was approached with long-term performance and functionality in mind.

The building itself balances strong Exterior Shell systems with highly functional Interiors designed to support flexibility, durability, and everyday use. Natural light, collaborative workspaces, classrooms, gathering areas, and faculty environments were all intentionally designed to create a campus experience that feels connected and easy to navigate without sacrificing performance or efficiency.

The result is a forward-looking academic environment built to support innovation, strengthen community, and create spaces that work as hard as the people using them every day.