Skip to main content Scroll Top

About

BRINGING NEW LIFE TO A DOWNTOWN CLASSIC

For more than fifty years, the Financial Center has been a familiar part of the Des Moines skyline. Built in 1973, this 345‑foot International Style tower was once the tallest building in the city. Its clean, modern design reflected the confidence of the era and made it one of downtown’s most recognizable landmarks. Today, Lawmark Capital is adapting this historic building to enter a new chapter as Mezzo on Walnut — a mixed‑use community designed for the next generation of downtown living.

HISTORIC LEGACY MEETS MODERN LIVING

Transforming an office tower from the 1970s into a place people call home is no small task. It requires thoughtful design, major investment, and a deep respect for the building’s history. At Mezzo on Walnut, the goal is simple: preserve what makes the building special while creating a comfortable, modern living experience. This means; restoring historic materials, upgrading major building systems, improving infrastructure for 24-hour residential living and carefully blending original design elements with new finishes and amenities. Every update is made with long‑term quality and livability in mind.

  • 10-foot coffered ceilings that create an airy, expansive feel

  • Solid-core 8-foot doors and exceptional top-tier soundproofing for quiet comfort

  • True 1-GB building-wide managed mesh Wi-Fi and wired access available in every unit

  • Operable window(s) in every residence for fresh air and ambiance

  • Eco-friendly wool mineral insulation and soundproofing

  • Extensive exterior envelope restoration

  • Replacement of original mechanical, electrical and plumbing

Lifestyle balance icon
DESIGNED FOR MODERN LIVING

The shift from office space to residential life completely changes how the building interacts with the city. Mezzo is a place where tenants can live, relax, and connect. Thoughtfully designed amenities, updated interiors, and new commercial spaces will bring energy into both the building and the surrounding streetscape. It’s not just a renovation — it’s a complete lifestyle transformation.

Couple relaxing on white chaise couch
Bike Commuter woman putting on helmet with work bag

Building icon

BOOSTING THE FUTURE OF DOWNTOWN

Beyond the building itself, Mezzo supports the ongoing revitalization of downtown Des Moines. Adding new residents and new street‑level activity helps; strengthen local businesses, increase walkability, bring more everyday life to the urban core and support a vibrant, welcoming neighborhood. This project isn’t only about updating a tower — it’s about investing in the future of downtown.

Pin drop location icon
HONORING THE PAST, LOOKING FORWARD

From its beginnings as the Financial Center to its transformation into Mezzo on Walnut, this building has always been part of Des Moines’ story. Now, it is being prepared for the next 50 years—preserving its iconic presence while creating a fresh, modern place for people to call home. Mezzo on Walnut is more than a redevelopment. It’s a new chapter for a beloved landmark and a meaningful step forward for downtown Des Moines.

Downtown Des Moines skyline with Financial Center and Mezzo lit up in blue lights at dusk

Quotation Icon

CAREFUL ATTENTION WAS PAID TO SHAPING THE RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL SPACES TO CRAFT IDEALIZED EXPERIENCES FOR ALL USER GROUPS.

The Financial Center is a major building in the Des Moines skyline with a history rooted in the financial services industry which has always been a keystone of our economy here. It’s an honor to reimagine the use of this building and fill a need for housing downtown. We’re excited for this building’s next evolution and the transformation downtown Des Moines is going through.”
– Taylor Hays, Slingshot Director and Interior Designer
“I particularly enjoy the success we found in converting this historic office building into functional and aesthetically pleasing residential units … Careful and thoughtful planning led to opportunities to bring daylight deeper into the units, ensuring bedrooms and living spaces delivered quality day lit environments.”
– Scott Huffman, Slingshot Architect

Curated spaces. elevated moments. Designed to live beautifully.

For pre-leasing information or to arrange a private tour, please contact our leasing agents.

Contact Us