Des Moines Federal Courthouse

It is a privilege to have contributed to the creation of a new U.S. Courthouse in Iowa—a rare and significant opportunity in this generation. This landmark project serves the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa and the City of Des Moines, showcasing the importance of blending innovative design with complex engineering systems. The U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) selected Neumann Monson, Mack Scogin Merrill Elam Architects, and MODUS, among others, to provide design services for the new facility in 2016. In 2018, Ryan Companies joined the team to handle construction.

As the MEP engineering consultant, MODUS played a critical role in designing and coordinating the complex systems required for this world-class facility. The courthouse features a diverse range of spaces, including public areas, courtrooms, support spaces, and secure holding and transport areas. This variety allowed MODUS to apply extensive experience in designing advanced plumbing, mechanical, and electrical systems.

The HVAC system features four dedicated energy recovery ventilators (ERVs) delivering ventilation air to variable air volume (VAV) indoor air handling units (AHUs) with electric heat and chilled water cooling. These systems supply air to VAV boxes equipped with electric reheat. The design also incorporates a variety of specialty systems tailored to meet the specific needs of the courthouse’s diverse space types.

The electrical system is designed to support the courthouse’s substantial electrical heating requirements while also addressing its broader operational needs. Multiple levels of redundancy were integrated based on the security and functionality demands of each system. MODUS collaborated with George Sexton and Associates on the lighting design, ensuring a balance between aesthetics, performance, security, and cost. A fully automated digital lighting control system allows for energy efficiency through scheduling and occupancy-based control.

Close coordination was critical for the integration of audiovisual and security systems, particularly in courtrooms and secure areas. MODUS participated in Building Information Modeling (BIM) coordination efforts alongside the construction team to ensure that all systems and devices were seamlessly incorporated within the building’s design and spatial constraints.

This project highlights MODUS’s expertise in delivering complex MEP solutions for high-profile facilities, showcasing a commitment to quality, precision, and innovative design.