801 Grand: The Towering Icon of Des Moines

801 Grand: Iowa’s Tallest Building

Located in the heart of downtown Des Moines, 801 Grand stands as the tallest building in Iowa, symbolizing the city’s economic growth and modern skyline. Towering at 630 feet (192 meters) with 45 stories, it has been an iconic part of Des Moines since its completion in 1991.

History and Construction

801 Grand, also known as the Principal Financial Group Tower, was designed by Hellmuth, Obata & Kassabaum (HOK), a prominent architectural firm, and constructed by Turner Construction Company. It was developed as the corporate headquarters for the Principal Financial Group, one of Iowa’s largest employers. The building was part of a larger plan to revitalize downtown Des Moines, and its construction marked a major step forward in modernizing the city’s architecture.

At the time of its completion, 801 Grand surpassed other structures, such as the Ruan Center, making it the tallest building in the state—a title it still holds.

Design and Features

The design of 801 Grand features a unique postmodern architectural style, with its distinct ziggurat shape at the top. The building’s exterior is primarily made of granite and glass, giving it a sleek and modern appearance. Its crown, which lights up at night, has become a recognizable feature of the Des Moines skyline.

The tower’s interior features 1.2 million square feet of office space and includes a variety of amenities, such as a fitness center, restaurant, and conference spaces. Though it serves as the headquarters for Principal Financial Group, the building also houses other businesses and professional services, contributing to Des Moines' financial district.

Economic and Cultural Impact

801 Grand has had a significant impact on the economy of Des Moines and the surrounding region. Its presence cemented Des Moines as a growing hub for finance and insurance, attracting additional investments and businesses to the area. The building plays a key role in the city’s financial services industry, further enhancing its reputation as an important economic center in the Midwest.

Beyond its economic impact, 801 Grand is also a cultural symbol of Des Moines' growth and modernization. As the tallest building in Iowa, it represents the city's evolution from a smaller Midwestern town into a bustling metropolitan area with a diverse economy.

Community Engagement

801 Grand is not just an office building; it has become a landmark for community events and activities in Des Moines. The building's lobby and surrounding area are often used for public events, and the illuminated crown is frequently lit in different colors to commemorate holidays or raise awareness for various causes, adding to its role in civic engagement.

Conclusion

801 Grand remains a testament to Des Moines' economic strength and architectural progress. As Iowa's tallest building, it not only serves as the headquarters for one of the state's largest companies but also stands as a symbol of growth and transformation in the heart of the city.

Its striking design, cultural significance, and enduring status make it a focal point for both locals and visitors, encapsulating the spirit of modern Iowa.