Wilkins
Location
713 Walnut Street, Des Moines, Iowa
Uses
Mixed-Use; 60 Market-Rate and Income-Restricted Residential Units; Commercial First Floor; Premier Event Venue Sixth Floor
Status
Completed 2017
Project Size
$26M Acquisition and Construction; Appraised at $9M
About This Project
BACKSTORY
Initially constructed as the Wilkins department store, this building was acquired by the Younkers Brothers and annexed into their newly constructed building. Significant for its association to the Younkers Department store, Wilkins is the only structural remains of the May 2014 Younkers Fire. The Wilkins building was the first reinforced concrete building in Des Moines, IA. The greatest importance is the historic Tea Room which is housed on the sixth floor.
DESCRIPTION
This mixed-use project includes ground-floor retail and commercial space opening onto the newly renovated Walnut Street. The second, third, fourth, and fifth floors consist of one- and two-bedroom apartments with large unit footprints. The urban loft aesthetic including sealed concrete flooring, contemporary lighting design, and historic plaster ceilings also offers a unique living experience. The Tea Room is fully restored as a private event venue.