BNIM designed the recently completed, energy efficient office building to house the Iowa Utilities Board (IUB) and the Office of the Consumer Advocate (OCA). An infill development on the State of Iowa Capitol Complex in Downtown Des Moines, the project was developed on a challenging, awkwardly proportioned landfill site and serves to create a gateway to the complex at its Southeast corner. The building will serve as a testament to the sustainable stewardship of the State of Iowa. It is a model energy efficient office building demonstrating proven, cost-effective energy efficiency measures for new construction.

 

The building is organized into two wings: the north wing comprises the IUB, while the south wing is comprised of the OCA on level two and common space on level one. The common space includes a hearing room, conference center and lounge space. Linking the two wings is a two-story lobby housing vertical circulation and service functions. An entrance courtyard sits between the wings and a plaza space is located off of the south wing.