Nov 23, 2025 - News
Iowa starts demolition of iconic gold-glass Wallace Building
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Demolition of the back portion of the Henry A. Wallace Building in Des Moines started last week. Photo: Jason Clayworth/Axios
Demolition of the Henry A. Wallace Building began last week.
Why it matters: Soon, the building's iconic gold-reflective exterior, which mirrors the Iowa Capitol, will be gone, greatly altering the landscape of the state government campus.
Catch up quick: The building was constructed nearly 50 years ago and had been plagued for years by failing mechanical systems, outdated electrical infrastructure, and persistent water damage that caused mold and air-quality problems.
- An analysis indicated that a complete makeover could cost over $60 million.
- In 2023, the state government purchased the former McLeodUSA office building at 6200 Park Ave. in DSM for $18 million, relocating hundreds of state offices.
What's next: State officials haven't announced their plans for the Wallace site.
- A bill to sell the land did not pass this year's legislative session, but a fiscal note to the proposal showed the property would be worth about $9.1 million if the building were removed, yielding roughly $500,000 more than if the state spent money to prepare it for sale.
