Wellmark YMCA (Polk County Convention Center)

501 Grand Avenue

Completed: 1986

Architects: Brooks Borg and Skiles with Loschky Marquardt and Nesholm (Seattle)

Voted 1 of the top 50 buildings of the 20th century in Iowa and best building of the decade

Converted to the Wellmark YMCA in 2013 to be completed in 2015.

145,000 sq ft – 47,000 sq ft clear span

Unusual site boundary geometry produced by intersecting street grids in the area.

Lobbies are irregular glazed volumes oriented to Grand Avenue, Fifth Avenue, and Watson Powell for views of downtown. Five types of glass utilized to balance desire for dramatic light filled space and day lighting with responsible energy use.