City of Des Moines Greenhouse & Solar Field

MA Architecture

Recognitions: 2026 AIA Iowa Impact Awards

Project Description

Note: Professional photographs to be completed early May 2025 and can be provided for publication. The new City of Des Moines Greenhouse & Solar Field is an innovative facility designed to enhance production, increase efficiency, and provide a bright, high-quality and comfortable environment for employees. Energy efficiency, enhanced growing technology, reduced operational costs, occupant well-being, and water efficiency were key components to the design of this LEED Gold certified facility. Operated by the Des Moines Parks and Recreation Department, the greenhouse grows over 230,000 flowering annuals each year for community groups to plant in public spaces, such as rights-of-ways, medians, street corners, and non-profit properties. Extensive research into greenhouse designs optimized its efficiency, incorporating features like passive cooling through roof vents, side vents, and shade curtains. The tri-peak form maximizes passive cooling which incorporating an insulated glass roof. The greenhouse is fully automated, with tailored spaces for transplanting, propagating, and growing plants. Each area has specific water, heat, and lighting needs, from capillary mats to overhead misting and grow lights. The greenhouse responds to both the local climate conditions and the specific planting needs. One of the few all-electric greenhouses globally, it is expected to operate as a Net Zero Energy facility, thanks to the adjacent solar array. The greenhouse covers 14,200 square feet on a 2.85-acre site and includes a Headhouse with transplanting, office space, break rooms, restrooms, and mechanical areas. The facility was designed to be flood-resistant, with elevated equipment and minimal use of flood-vulnerable materials. Sustainability extends to the site, where 40% is dedicated to native prairie and pollinator plants. A rainwater management system using biocells and bioswales captures water on-site. This cutting-edge facility reflects the City's commitment to ambitious climate action while putting both green infrastructure, and the plants, on display.