Replay Student Housing

Located in Iowa City, IA

With enrollment growing at the University of Iowa, student housing demand outpaced supply, particularly on the city’s west side. The Replay development team saw an opportunity in a compact urban infill site. However, success would depend on navigating zoning complexity, standing out in a competitive market, and staying on schedule. The team needed a partner who could guide approvals, coordinate fast-moving disciplines, and deliver a residential experience that would appeal to today’s students.

Shive-Hattery partnered with Scannell Properties to bring the vision to life, providing fully integrated services across architecture, interior design, civil/site engineering, structural, MEP, landscape architecture, and survey. Early engagement with city officials helped streamline zoning and permitting processes, protect the construction timeline, and reduce cost risk.

Replay was designed with flexibility and differentiation in mind. The 291-unit, 648-bed complex offers a mix of floor plans. It includes amenities like a pool, gaming areas, outdoor kitchens, hammocks, a dog park, and sustainable landscaping. The result is housing that complements a student lifestyle that feels elevated, social, and residential.

Replay has brought high-density housing to a small urban site and transformed an underutilized parcel into a high-performing student community.

By combining strong city relationships, responsive design, and efficient project delivery, the development team delivered a product that checks every box: fast approvals, budget control, campus proximity, and market differentiation. Replay reshapes Iowa City’s west side and sets a new benchmark for urban student housing in the region.