Design that Fosters Connection, Resilience and Impact

RDG is celebrating 60 years of designing spaces that matter. Since our founding in 1965, we’ve remained rooted in the belief that design has the power to improve lives. We invite you to celebrate this milestone with us as we look back at a legacy built on creativity and community, doing so with a renewed commitment to creating noteworthy spaces for the next 60 years and beyond. 

In June’s edition of The Rundown, we share stories about projects that connect people, purpose and place — from a law office remodel to a church built from the ground up, these projects represent places where people can thrive, grow and deepen important relationships. 

Stay tuned for more features in future RDG Rundowns as we explore the impact of 60 years of creating meaning together! 

Sustainability in Action 

In 2019, Des Moines University (DMU) embarked on an ambitious campus relocation project to do more with less, partnering with RDG to create a regenerative campus focused on resource conservation, energy efficiency and responsible stewardship.

RDG’s Mike Houston and Benjamin Kroll, AIA, LEED AP, NCARB, spoke with AIA Architect about how RDG’s design for the campus speaks to DMU’s holistic approach to sustainability, leading the campus to achieve LEED Silver certification across all four of its buildings, and anticipated WELL certification. Since its completion in 2023, the campus has seen a 56% reduction in energy use intensity, a 67% reduction in operational carbon emissions and more. 

Read more about how the new campus creates a healthier and more connected community.  

Intentional and Collaborative Design Bring Church’s Vision to Life 

On June 5th, 2025, the St. Patrick’s Catholic Church community in Elkhorn, Nebraska, gathered to celebrate a transformative milestone: the dedication of their new church. The new campus honors the parish’s 157-year legacy while also creating space to accommodate Elkhorn’s growing community and deepening community engagement. 

“Designing a new church is always an incredible responsibility, and with St. Patrick, that responsibility came with the privilege of honoring a long and deep-rooted history of faith and tradition,” said RDG Architect and Partner Joe Kotulak, AIA .   

Situated on a 12-acre donated site, the $38 million project is the result of an intentional, collaborative process grounded in a set of guiding principles established early on. The resulting design draws inspiration from early Irish churches and monasteries and increases the church’s capacity. Additional spaces for quiet prayer, community gatherings and fellowship further strengthen the parish’s ability to grow its ministries and reflect its mission to educate, nurture and sustain faith across generations.  

Find out more about RDG's design for the new St. Patrick’s Catholic Church. 

A Small-Town Community Unveils a New Public Space 

The City of Marion, Iowa officially celebrated the completion and grand opening of its new Central Plaza at City Square Park. Designed by RDG, the project transforms a key block in the Uptown Marion District into a vibrant space for year-round community events.  

“The design of Marion's Central Plaza was guided by a strong community vision to create a central gathering space within Uptown Marion. Each detail invites connection, celebration and creativity,” said RDG Landscape Architect Sara Poetting , PLA, ASLA. 

Since opening, the Central Plaza has already become a dynamic hub of activity. The space has hosted a range of public events, including community yoga sessions, seasonal markets, an art festival and live music performances. 

Learn more about the new Central Plaza in Marion, Iowa. 

Reimagining a Former Law Library 

Dentons Davis Brown, a leading law firm in downtown Des Moines, Iowa, sought to update their underutilized space with the goal of supporting a dynamic culture within the office to attract top talent and retain experienced staff. RDG’s interior designers approached this project with an eye for timeless sophistication, balancing contemporary elements with the character of the existing architecture. 

Within the space, a former law library has been transformed into a lounge that serves as a hub for employees and visitors. The den-like space features soft seating, a pool table and areas for casual games and conversation.  In addition to social spaces, the renovation prioritized Dentons' commitment to wellness. The Dentons Davis Brown Renovation is a powerful example of how design can reflect and reinforce an organization's identity.  

See how RDG's design for new amenities ties in with Denton's cultural values of growth and purpose.