Outstretched cantilevered planes soar above Des Moines’ downtown gateway and sculpture park. Lightness, simplicity, and openness define the Krause Gateway Center. This corporate headquarters building houses several companies under the same ownership to capitalize on the ability to co-mingle.
The 160,000-square-foot structure is sited at the crux of a shift in the city grid. This inspired the design, seen in the 16-degree rotation of the uppermost floors to orient with the northern city grid while alignment is maintained with the surrounding urban context at the lower floors. The site engages the public with 100+ trees filling an urban park that compliments the sculpture park across the street.
Wall-to-wall expanses of glass are protected by the deep overhangs, avoiding direct sun while allowing natural light deep into the building, offering 360-degree views of the downtown skyline. The focal point of the design is its light-filled lobby encased by 29-foot-tall glass; the largest insulated glass lites in the world when installed. An open plan on all six levels is accomplished through a structural grid supported by ‘super columns’ strategically located to carry the upper-most floors, with the mid-level floors partially hung from the floors above. A multi-purpose room and an art gallery occupy the second level, while the first floor houses a conference center, game room, and fitness center.
Interior spaces at the upper levels have direct access to complimentary outdoor areas. On the roof, a small glazed pavilion sits within a native short-grass prairie. The interior finish palette is neutral so the building becomes a backdrop for views and an expansive art collection. The gallery-esque materials are warmed with wood panels and floors, limestone, and pops of saturated colors in furniture, art, and graphics. In this way, the building harmonizes workspaces, cityscapes, landscapes and art.
Renzo Piano Building Workshop in collaboration with OPN Architects.
Credits:
- Front Inc. - Facade Engineer - Marc Simmons
- Silman - Structural Engineer - Nat Oppenheimer
- Renzo Piano Building Workshop - Design Architect - Carly Weber
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