As a member of the Des Moines Urban Design Review Board (UDRB) since April 2018, I work to promote sensitive, durable, and sustainable development – our charge is to advise the City Council on City planning efforts and projects receiving City subsidy.  In this capacity, I have the opportunity to impact the early stages of planning and redevelopment across the City.

Discussions and debate at Board meetings sometimes dive deep into the weeds, discussing the finer points of specific design or sustainability strategies.  We consciously work to guide projects towards bold and engaging responses to their broader context, durable materials and design detailing that protect the City’s investment over time, and optimistic solutions that build towards a vital urban center.