East Village Square: A Hub for Urban Living & Creativity
Des Moines, IA • 2005
Summary
Located at 333 East Grand in Des Moines’ vibrant East Village, East Village Square (EVS) is a dynamic mixed-income community designed for modern urban living. Overlooking downtown Des Moines to the west and the golden dome of the State Capitol to the east, EVS seamlessly blends residential, creative, and entrepreneurial spaces in one of the city’s most sought-after neighborhoods.
A Unique Live/Work Concept
EVS features 21 live/work lofts, ranging from 900 to 1,150 square feet, ideal for artists, entrepreneurs, and small business owners who want to live and work in the same space. These street-facing lofts create a pedestrian-friendly streetscape, activating the neighborhood with a mix of residential and commercial energy.
Beyond the live/work units, EVS includes:
✔ 94 one- and two-bedroom apartments
✔ A mix of market-rate and low-income housing options
✔ Breathtaking city views of both downtown Des Moines and the State Capitol
Transforming the East Village
EVS stands as a flagship residential development and one of the largest construction projects in the East Village since the Capitol itself. Hatch Development Group secured the project after winning a competitive bid from the City of Des Moines to redevelop the former Dewey Ford dealership site. The result? A $16.2 million mixed-income housing community developed in partnership with the Neighborhood Investment Corporation, a nonprofit dedicated to strengthening local neighborhoods.
Blending Tradition and Modern Living
Historically known as the government section of Iowa’s capital, the East Village is home to both state and city institutions. EVS was designed to complement the neighborhood’s historic layout, preserving its small-parcel character while introducing modern, adaptable spaces.
Key design elements include street-side live/work lofts with distinct architectural identities; classically proportioned building scale to match the existing neighborhood fabric; retail and commercial spaces within the live/work lofts, contributing to the street’s vibrancy.
By combining innovative design, mixed-income accessibility, and commercial opportunities, East Village Square remains a model for urban renewal, strengthening the East Village’s creative and residential community for generations to come.
