Dickey & Campbell Law Office

Studio MELEE

Recognitions: AIA Iowa 2020 Craft Award

Project Description

For over 100 years, a non-descript brick building stood at the corner of 3rd and Walnut. In late 2016, a windstorm caused the century old front façade of the Dickey and Campbell law office to collapse onto the sidewalk below. While a simple brick face could have been re-installed with little concern for time and insurance reimbursement, the business ownership recognized the value of their brand image and saw an opportunity to re-imagine the look and feel of the primary elevation. The owners hired a local design firm with the intent of envisioning the best possible solution. Several restrictions existed including time, budget, winter conditions, pre-existing window proportions, and the need to remain occupied in all areas of the offices immediately adjacent to the exterior wall. After exploring various options, the idea of lightening up the façade attracted the most interest. By using masonry sparingly, and recessing areas of cement board siding, lintel sizes were reduced. Decorative steel awnings were added to face to create depth, and accent lighting was incorporated to highlight details, emphasize depth, and attract more attention to a façade that had long sat unnoticed in the East Village.