News
04.14.2010
Making the Center Bold
Even in the recession, private philanthropies and resilient industries are investing in urban centers and new public spaces. AN looks at three midwestern communities that are getting it right.
Substance Architecture's Riverwalk pavilion in Des Moines.
Courtesy Substance Architecture

 


the Union Railroad Bridge, converted to pedestrian use by Safdie Rabines.
COURTESY safdie rabines
 
  

Des Moines

Powered by insurance industry giants and presidential politics, Des Moines has long taken pride in its status as a globally connected hub. Now new initiatives, including an ambitious Riverwalk development and transit center, are reconnecting the city's downtown neighborhoods with civic-spirited design.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

   

 
BETA Design's grand rapids opera.
COURTESY beta desigN
 

Grand Rapids

A vibrant arts sector has helped transform this Western Michigan downtown with a new art museum and opera, along with several medical projects spearheaded by the robust health care sector.

 
 
 

 


The st. louis citygarden.
steve hall/hedrich blessing
 
  

St. Louis

The Gateway Mall is a focal point for redevelopment in downtown St. Louis, and its new CityGarden sculpture park, financed entirely with private funds, is seen as just the tip of the iceberg of efforts to revamp public spaces.