Des Moines Federal Courthouse
Protective Design for a High-Security Courthouse
Rising nine stories along the Des Moines River, this new $137 million federal courthouse redefines access to justice for the Southern
District of Iowa. Hosting nine modern courtrooms and offices for criminal, bankruptcy, probation, and appellate proceedings—as well as the
U.S. Marshals Service—its construction represents a top priority for the federal Judiciary. Targeting LEED Gold certification, the
courthouse incorporates a reflective cool roof, insulated window glazing, LED lighting, occupancy sensors, and daylight harvesting. It
stands as a secure, sustainable landmark designed to protect the people, processes, and principles at the heart of our justice system.
IntegralRSG brought critical expertise in protective design and specialty engineering to align the courthouse with the highest standards of
resilience. Our team used advanced performance-based engineering to achieve a Facility Security Level IV designation under Interagency
Security Committee standards. We addressed threats ranging from Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) to hostile vehicle attacks. We also
developed structural strategies to safeguard against progressive collapse, ensuring continuity of operations under extreme conditions.
Through an integrated design approach, we delivered holistic, unobtrusive security solutions that minimize impacts on functionality and
aesthetics while maximizing safety. The result is a courthouse that not only delivers justice but also sets a benchmark for federal facility
security, resilience, and protective design in the Midwest.
| Owner: |
General Services Administration (GSA) |
| Size: |
230,000 SF |
| Location: |
Des Moines, IA |
| Collaborators: |
Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects, Neumann Monson Architects, Ryan Companies |
| Delivery Method: |
Construction Manager as Constructor |
| Sustainability Marker: | LEED Gold |