BUSINESS RECORD / Mainframe makeover expected to begin in June
Business Record Staff
Work on a 360-degree mural called "Critical Mass" is expected to begin this month at Mainframe Studios, which houses affordable workspaces for artists and low-cost office space for nonprofit arts groups.
More than a year ago, Mainframe Studios unveiled plans to transform the drab-looking concrete building at 900 Keosauqua Way into an eye-catching display of colors that captures the attention of passers-by headed into downtown Des Moines.
The permanent mural will cover the exterior facade of the five-story building. Mainframe Studios commissioned the work as part of its capital campaign to finish renovating the facility. As of March, four of the five floors have been renovated.
Mainframe Studios opened in late 2017. The building originally housed Northwestern Bell Co.’s data center and then became a call center for Qwest and later CenturyLink.
The most recent renovations came in under budget. In addition, all of the organization’s studios are occupied. Fundraising will continue until the final floor is renovated and the organization’s financially self-sustaining business plan is realized.
A public celebration and announcement about Mainframe Studios’ future is planned at 4 p.m. Friday at the building at 900 Keosauqua Way.