Des Moines
University
Site Design
At Des Moines University's new 88-acre campus, the landscape connects the advancement of health sciences with the health of people and the environment. Moving beyond its constrained urban campus gave the university an opportunity to reconsider the campus experience "from the ground up." RDG's landscape architects helped translate that ambition into a setting shaped by the land's history and the daily needs of its community.
Located at the edge of the prehistoric Wisconsin Glacier's advance, the site provided a distinctive foundation for design. Patterns of glacial meltwater informed the campus pathways, landforms and gathering spaces. Glacial erratics, created here by imported boulders to represent what is deposited by the glacial movement, create seating, landmarks and spatial definition throughout the campus core. These elements establish a shared design language that connects the landscape with the architecture.
Outdoor spaces support both the collaborative nature of health sciences education and the need for personal respite. The Meltwater Plaza and the Campus Green provide places to gather, study and connect between classes. The elevated Innovation Terrace offers views across campus, while accessible switchback paths lead to the hillside Council Ring, an intimate setting for outdoor learning and quiet reflection. Together, these destinations make movement through campus an opportunity for discovery and renewal.
Environmental systems are integral to the experience. Restored prairie, meadow and wetland landscapes bring ecological diversity to the former agricultural site. Seven bioswales help manage rainwater as a resource, contributing to an annual stormwater runoff reduction of approximately 1.6 million gallons. The green infrastructure approach also saved approximately $900,000 compared with conventional stormwater infrastructure.
The landscape extends the university's commitment to health beyond its academic buildings. Trails, water features and natural areas welcome the surrounding West Des Moines community, creating shared access to the outdoors. The result is a campus where learning, well-being and environmental stewardship are part of everyday life.