A prominent addition to the Des Moines skyline has earned top honors for its architectural execution and material choice. Tempo East Village, a modern residential complex located at 317 E. Sixth St., has been selected as a recipient of the 2026 Appreciation Award from the Masonry Institute of Iowa.
The award recognizes the project’s superior utilize of masonry, a distinction reserved for Iowa development projects that demonstrate a rare combination of design innovation and technical craftsmanship. In a city where urban renewal often balances modern aesthetics with historic sensibilities, the masonry group recognizes East Village apartment with award that highlights the building’s ability to blend into the fabric of one of Des Moines’ most eclectic districts.
The seven-story development, which comprises 110 residential units, was designed to serve as more than just housing. By integrating thoughtful masonry elements, the project enhances both the structural integrity of the building and the visual appeal of the surrounding East Village neighborhood. The selection process for the Appreciation Award focuses on projects that elevate the standard of masonry work across the state, acknowledging the collaboration between architects, developers, and skilled tradespeople.
A Strategic Shift for Heart of America Group
The development marks a significant milestone for the Heart of America Group, the entity that both built and owns the property. While the group has a long-standing reputation for developing commercial assets—including a wide portfolio of hotels and restaurants across Iowa and Illinois—Tempo East Village represents their first venture into residential mixed-use projects.
Transitioning from purely commercial developments to a high-density residential model requires a different approach to durability and aesthetics. The use of high-quality masonry was central to this transition, ensuring the building could withstand the elements while offering the timeless appeal that residents expect in an upscale urban environment.
“This recognition reflects the craftsmanship, collaboration, and commitment to quality demonstrated by everyone involved in bringing this project to life,” Krysia Hannam, Heart of America Group’s director of property management, said in a prepared statement.
Project Specifications and Urban Impact
The Tempo opened its doors in August 2024, quickly becoming a focal point for growth in the East Village. The district is known for its walkable streets and a mix of boutique retail and modern lofts, making the integration of masonry a key factor in the building’s acceptance by the community.
By utilizing masonry not just for structural support but as a primary design element, the developers avoided the “cookie-cutter” feel often associated with fresh mid-rise apartments. This approach provides a tactile quality to the streetscape, mirroring the historic brickwork found in older parts of the city while maintaining a contemporary silhouette.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Address | 317 E. Sixth St., Des Moines |
| Total Units | 110 Apartments |
| Building Height | 7 Stories |
| Owner/Developer | Heart of America Group |
| Opening Date | August 2024 |
The Role of the Masonry Institute of Iowa
The Masonry Institute of Iowa serves as a hub for professionals in the brick and stone industry, promoting the longevity and versatility of masonry in modern construction. The Appreciation Award is a peer-reviewed honor, meaning the Tempo was judged against other high-profile projects across the state.
Such recognition often serves as a catalyst for future developments in the region, encouraging other builders to invest in materials that offer long-term sustainability and aesthetic value over cheaper, shorter-lived alternatives. For Heart of America Group, the award validates their decision to prioritize craftsmanship in their first residential foray.
Next Steps and Recognition
The formal presentation of the 2026 Appreciation Award is scheduled for April 14. The honor will be bestowed during the Masonry Institute of Iowa’s annual meeting, where industry leaders and architects will gather to discuss the future of construction and material science in the Midwest.
As the East Village continues to evolve, the success of the Tempo project provides a blueprint for how mixed-use developments can contribute to the city’s architectural heritage while meeting the demands of a growing urban population.
The next official checkpoint for the project will be the annual meeting on April 14, where the full scope of the award’s criteria and the project’s specific contributions to masonry excellence will be detailed.
Do you think modern urban developments are doing enough to preserve traditional craftsmanship? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
