Building Built

Originally built to house mainframe computers, the building was turned into a call center and later vacated in 2011. Designed by Des Moines architect Charles “Chick” Herbert, whose credits include the Des Moines Civic Center and Iowa State University’s College of Design.

Advisory Committee Formed

Leaders from business, arts and government came together in support of the vision and helped shape a path for making it a reality.

​Local Demand Study

Grass roots effort to demonstrate need for permanent affordable workspace existed.

Nonprofit Formed

Under the name DesMoinesArts, name changed to Mainframe Studios in 2016

Building Purchased

160,000 Square Feet and 5 floors

Renovation

Demolition took nearly entire building back to the precast concrete, curtain-wall shell; 164 new window openings added; 110,000 SF of concrete flooring ground down and burnished; entirely new electrical, plumbing and sprinkler systems installed

Phase 1 Opened

Included three of five floors (lower level, first and fourth floors), 75 studios and an event rental space of 4600 SF with adjacent commercial kitchen and resident caterer

Phase 2 Opened

Added 58 more studios on 3rd floor. Opened during the pandemic. Renovations came in under budget and occupancy was at 100% within 30 days. Mainframe’s operating expenses became financially self-sustaining.

Final Studio Floor Completed

2nd floor opened to add 47 more studios

ART

A striking art installation by renowned Graphic Designer Jay Vigon is featured above the elevators on the first floor of Mainframe Studios. Showcasing his iconic painted faces, the piece honors the building's diverse community and adds a vibrant, energetic touch to the lobby.

Jay Vigon

Critical Mass

Critical Mass is a mural by Molly Spain that visually represents the concept of collective creative energy through dark, totem-like columns inspired by Brutalist architecture and ancient structures. Completed in 2021 with over 1,500 hours of labor, the mural honors Mainframe Studios’ mission by highlighting the dynamic interplay of artistic disciplines and the transformative power of creativity.

Molly Spain

Man with the Moon by Jay Vigon and James Bearden // Mainframe Sculpture Pad

Man with the Moon is an outdoor sculpture created by artist James Bearden in collaboration with graphic designer Jay Vigon, transforming one of Vigon's designs into a striking three-dimensional form. Located near Mainframe Studios’ entrance, the piece features Bearden’s signature chunky metal textures, giving it a distinct and otherworldly presence.

Building Renovations Completed

$15 Million Capital campaign completed. Fundraising paid for the cost of purchasing the building, renovation costs and the cost of operations during the capital campaign. The five story, 181 studio building is fully occupied.

Inhale, Exhale

A rooftop installation titled Inhale, Exhale by Des Moines artist and activist Jordan Weber was installed at Mainframe Studios, featuring mirrored, LED-lit letters visible from I-235 and oriented toward the Oakridge Neighborhood. Designed as a meditative and healing message in the face of adversity, the piece reflects Weber’s ongoing work addressing racism and environmental justice through public art and urban intervention.

Jordan Weber

Lighting Capital Project

Mainframe Studios is launching the Lighting Capital Project, a major initiative to enhance safety, visibility, and sustainability by illuminating its iconic architecture, murals, and gallery spaces.

Special thanks to our donors & partners Bravo of Greater Des Moines, Greater Des Moines Partnership, & Operation Downtown.