ASLA Iowa Chapter Recognizes Excellence in Landscape Design

October 06, 2022
Landscape Architecture Lighting Design College & University

RDG Planning & Design has been honored for outstanding contributions that raise the standard of the profession, positively impact communities and improve quality of life.

The Iowa Chapter of the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA Iowa) has recognized RDG Planning & Design with multiple 2022 ASLA Iowa Awards. These awards bring recognition to organizations and individuals who demonstrate superior skills in the practice of landscape architecture. 

RDG’s recognition includes a project award for Palmer College of Chiropractic Student Housing and Recreation Field Site Improvements in Davenport, Iowa (Merit Award, Design Unbuilt) and an individual award to RDG Senior Partner Patrick Dunn, PLA, ASLA (President’s Medal). The firm was recognized as a collaborator for the Kaiserslautern Square Upgrades in Davenport, Iowa (Merit Award, Design Built) and Iowa’s Living Roadway’s Community Visioning Program (Honor Award, Planning & Analysis).  

As the oldest chiropractic school in the world, Palmer College was looking to provide modern housing options for its diverse student body. The college is also home to a successful rugby team, which led to the decision to design a new building and a recreational field. RDG’s design for Palmer’s student housing provides basic and elevated amenities including a patio and a variety of lounge spaces that encourage socialization and community building. The new field creates a dedicated place for the rugby team to practice and play and houses space for additional recreation and intramural activities. 

“There is no one more deserving of the President’s Medal honor. Pat has dedicated decades to advocating and serving the landscape architecture profession,” said RDG partner Eric Iverson, ASLA. “Pat has been integral to the success of landscape architecture for RDG and across Iowa. He continues to elevate and challenge those around him in creative ways.”

RDG Senior Partner Patrick Dunn was honored with the Iowa ASLA Chapter’s President’s Medal. This annual award recognizes an individual for outstanding leadership and service to the profession over many years. An experienced landscape architect with more than 30 years in practice, Dunn has contributed to countless notable projects, including the iconic Pappajohn Sculpture Park in Des Moines, Iowa. In addition to his design work, Dunn has served as a mentor for young landscape architects and an advocate for the profession.   

Participation in the Iowa ASLA award program helps broaden professional boundaries, increases public awareness of the role of landscape architects and raises the standards of the discipline. For the 2022 awards, a jury of qualified professionals from the Oklahoma Chapter reviewed each submittal and determined winners in each award category.

Written by Erin Van Zee, Communications Director