Iowa State Judicial Branch Building
Des Moines, Iowa

Architect
DLR Group

Design Architect
KMD

General Contractor Neumann
Brothers, Inc.

Service
WJH&A developed an exterior envelope system that incorporated limestone with an innovative adaptation of back-ventilated, open-joint European rainscreen technology.

The use of this type of exterior envelope provided the aesthetics needed to complement the Capitol campus, the cost effectiveness to meet the budgetary restraints and the time efficiency needed for the tight schedule. The result is a classic, energy-efficient exterior that will last for generations.

Iowa Judicial Branch Building

Combining today’s exterior envelope technology with the timeless appearance of limestone

Situated on a bluff overlooking the Des Moines River Valley, the Iowa Judicial Branch Building stands as a symbol of the court system. The facility features an interior atrium and a 100-foot-tall rotunda capped by a copper dome. The exterior building envelope needed to represent the same sense of dignity and durability associated with the judicial system.

By combining European rainscreen technology with the classic appeal of limestone, the Iowa Judicial Branch Building complements the architecture of the Capitol complex while providing an energy-efficient environment for the Iowa Supreme Court.

The Challenge.
The challenge was to construct a multi-level facility that would last at least 100 years, incorporate the most current technological building advances and complement the existing Capitol architecture. The building’s exterior needed to have a classic appeal, yet be economical enough to work within tight budget and scheduling boundaries. Using a combination of copper and limestone also meant that a proactive solution was needed to avert the unsightly stains that can occur when the two materials are joined.

The Design.
The design architect chose a highly articulated limestone facade for the exterior of the Iowa State Judicial Building. The structure is a commanding presence with its massive pillars, archways and copper dome. The ledges, cornice pieces and specialized coping also make dramatic statement, especially when highlighted with indirect lighting.

The limestone exterior envelope needed to be constructed to last 100 years with little or no maintenance. An impressive copper-covered dome added to the classic, official appearance, and harmonizing with the existing campus architecture.