Resiliency recognized by AIA Central States in courthouse and library
Recognized among architecture firms across the Midwest, the American Institute of Architects’ Central States Excellence in Design Awards honored OPN’s Polk County Historic Courthouse and Rudd Public Library on September 25th. The historic courthouse was given an Honor Award, Excellence in Preservation or Adaptive Reuse from the Central States Chapter for the transformation and conservation of the historic county building. The Rudd Public Library received an Merit Award, Excellence in Architecture from the Central States Chapter for the rebuilt library in the aftermath of tragedy.
Polk County Historic Courthouse – AIA Central States Excellence in Preservation or Adaptive Reuse Honor Award
The restoration of this nearly 120-year-old courthouse represents the final phase of a multi-year plan that also includes a justice center and criminal courts building. This project brought the building back to life by uncovering and restoring much of its original details and architecture.
The first phase revitalized the exterior limestone and metal in 2017. Phase two, the subject of this nomination, restored the grandeur of the interior while also serving the functional needs of a 21st century courthouse with modern, safe, secure spaces for staff and the public. Construction was staged over four years to maintain courts operations.
Drop ceilings were removed to reveal ornate plaster molding in serious disrepair. In each of the original six courtrooms, more than 100 years of smoke, dirt, and grime and a patchwork of tile ceilings, carpet, and paint was removed. Plaster and paint were restored to their original schemes and state. In other areas that were not fully restored, adaptations create contemporary courtrooms that honor the existing architecture while also creating flexible and just courtroom layouts.
The result is an architectural treasure restored to its original majesty as a celebration of the county’s past while also creating a place of dignity, justice and safety for current and future citizens.
The changes from before to after are very subtle but completely transform the feel of the space. It’s a dramatic transformation that is respectful of history.”
2025 Jury Member
Rudd Public Library – AIA Central States Award
Rebuilding stronger and better after a devastating tornado, Rudd Public Library now serves as a metaphorical front porch – an architectural and cultural threshold where public and private life converge.
Rebuilt on a new site next to the community’s recreation center, the design of the new library takes cues from the surrounding residential neighborhood. Strategically located along the town’s primary arterial road, the library sits on the site of Rudd’s original elementary school. This location reclaims a key civic corner – adjacent to a privately owned recreation center and diagonally across from the town church, reestablishing the area as a focal point of community life.
The project was funded almost entirely by grants and donations, including the proceeds from luncheons and a root beer stand. More than $2,000 came from a rummage sale that the library continues to hold each year to pay for the operating costs of the new library. Just as the community came together to rebuild, they continue to support the library. Since reopening, the library has signed up 33 new library card holders bringing the total to more than 200 – over half of the town’s total population.
This is a very sweet project that fits into the scale of its community.”
2025 Jury Member
