Terri Meyer Boake B.E.S. B.Arch. M.Arch. LEED AP
Associate Professor School of Architecture University of Waterloo

Image Gallery:

 
Des Moines Art Center Richard Meier

Des Moines Art Center

Richard Meier Architect (1985)

Des Moines, Iowa

 


About the building:

The Des Moines Art Center was constructed over a period of time. This addition by Richard Meier was constructed in 1985, followed one in 1966 by I.M. Pei, and the original building constructed by Eliel Saarinen in 1945.

More info:
http://www.desmoinesartcenter.org/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Des_Moines_Art_Center


Rear view of gallery addition.
Gallery as it abuts original Saarinen stone building.

Juncture between Meier and Saarinen buildings.
The classic metal panel facade.

Interior of gallery (closed when we visited).
Front view.
Large sculptures are located around the building.
View of steel stairs to second floor.
Detail of underside of steel stairs alongside metal cladding.
View out from building.
View from second floor exterior stair landing.
View down metal access stair.
The Meier addition also incorporates an amount of stone cladding as a gesture to the other two pre-existing buildings.
Curved panel and glass facade.
View down through steel stair grating.
Rear elevation of building.
Entrance to original Saarinen building.
Junction of Saarinen building and Pei addition.
Top lighting detail of Pei addition.
Elevation of Pei concrete addition.


The images on this site have been taken for use in my teaching. They may be copied for educational purposes. Please give credit. These images may not be reproduced commercially without written consent.

last updated March 8, 2008