RDG in the Media: Iowa Genealogical Society to Relocate to Historic Butler Mansion

The Iowa Genealogical Society has announced plans to relocate to the historic Butler Mansion on the south side of downtown Des Moines, Iowa. The move came at the recommendation of the Italian American Cultural Center of Iowa, which owns the three-story, 87-year-old mansion, and will allow the society to expand its offerings and hold conferences in the same building as its extensive library. The Des Moines Business Record spoke with various individuals involved in the development, including RDG Planning & Design Architect and Principal Matt Coen, AIA, to better understand the impact and intent of future plans for the 1930s-era building.

Over the last year, the center’s design committee worked with RDG to create a redevelopment plan for the property. The design encompasses approximately 41,000 SF of space and creates a museum, cafe, courtyard, education and event spaces, eight bocce ball courts, and Airbnb-style lodging to allow for new or expanded educational, cultural and event offerings. 

“We are lucky that previous stewards of the building were careful to not remove historic features from the original home even when it functioned as an office building,” said Coen. “Many of the architectural features, from the lighting and bathroom fixtures to the signature central ramp, remain in excellent condition to this day and will figure prominently into the restoration.”

Once complete, the center will be a versatile space for community events, weddings, corporate functions and more, emphasizing its role as a multicultural hub. Renovations are expected to be completed by 2026.

Read more about the planned renovation and future of the Butler Mansion.