This paper documents the eight-year evolution of the Department of Architecture’s Comprehensive Design program at Iowa State University. Since its initial offering in 2001, we have attempted to deliver the NAAB requirement in a broad, holistic context, incorporating not only the required technical aspects of studio work, but also an urban, civic agenda and an emphasis on human, public space. The result has been a studio that is seen by the department and by partners in the profession as a model for integrative, collaborative work, and we offer techniques and suggestions for other programs with evolving Comprehensive studios.