Currently under construction on the east side of Des Moines, Fire Station No. 4 embodies a commitment to service, resilience, and design excellence. For this essential civic facility, the brick facade plays a central role in conveying the building’s identity—grounded, purposeful, and quietly expressive.
The design centers on a monk bond coursing, which introduces a refined herringbone effect across the brick surface. While subtle at first glance, this rhythmic pattern brings a sense of motion to the facade—mirroring the responsiveness of the fire department and the ever-present readiness of the station. As light moves across the elevation, the coursing creates texture, depth, and a tactile quality that invites closer inspection.
Material choice was equally deliberate. The brick, “Coppertone” by Glen-Gery, was selected for its tonal variation and deep, dark finish. Its earthy richness provides both contrast and cohesion—allowing the building to stand out while remaining attuned to the scale and character of the neighborhood.
This level of craft would not be possible without the skilled work of our construction partners. Ryan Companies is leading construction with Midwest Masonry executing the complex brickwork. The success of the facade lies in the attention to detail at every scale—from precise layout to the clean execution of the monk bond coursing. It’s a testament to the expertise and care of the masons on site, whose craftsmanship gives form to the architectural intent.
As the project continues to take shape, we’re proud to collaborate with the City of Des Moines, Ryan Companies, and Midwest Masonry to bring this thoughtful design to life—one that celebrates material, pattern, and the civic spirit it supports.
