How Shive-Hattery is Designing a Learning Organization in Des Moines & Beyond

In Des Moines, Iowa — home to Shive-Hattery’s largest office and the fastest-growing major metro in the Midwest — more than 200 Shive-Hattery design professionals recently gathered for a dynamic, multi-day professional development and learning event. The biennial Design Swarm brought together architects, interior designers, landscape architects and graphic designers from across the country to exchange ideas and build connections. The event showcased Des Moines as a hub of design, talent and innovation and as a preferred destination for young professionals.

Design Swarm: A Platform for Growth and Creativity

Led and organized by Shive-Hattery designers, the Design Swarm reflects the firm’s belief in Designing What Matters. Held every other year, the three-day gathering draws over 200 creative professionals from all over the country, for peer-led workshops, project tours and hands-on collaboration.

2025 Design Swarm
Photo Credit: Chris Boeke Studio

This year's Swarm included visits to notable Des Moines sites — many of which were designed by Shive-Hattery, offering attendees a firsthand look at how thoughtful place-making shapes community impact.

• MidAmerican Energy Company RecPlex

MidAmerican RecPlex
Photo Credit: AJ Brown Imaging

• Des Moines Art Center
• Easter Lake Park

Athene North Shore Recreation Area at Easter Lake Park
Photo Credit: AJ Brown Imaging

• Des Moines Area Community College Urban Campus

DMACC Urban Campus Student Center
Photo Credit: Chris Boeke Studio

“Relocating to Des Moines was a big step. I was drawn here by the quality of life and the opportunity to grow in a place where design truly matters,” said Andersen Coates, an early-career architectural designer at Shive-Hattery. “Seeing our projects around the city and being part of the Swarm gave me a deeper appreciation for our impact on the community.”

Andersen Coates

Des Moines: A Magnet for Talent and Design Thinking

Des Moines continues to attract professionals seeking affordability, opportunity and cultural vibrancy. As AIA Iowa’s headquarters, the city fosters continuous development for licensed architects and supports design innovation through its institutions and community partnerships.

“Bringing our designers together in Des Moines reinforces our belief that people thrive when given inspiring spaces to learn, connect, and create,” said Craig Erickson, Managing Director of Shive-Hattery’s Des Moines office. “This region’s growth and energy reflect the same momentum we’re building within our teams.”

Craig Erickson

Elevating the Industry, Strengthening Community

Events like Shive-Hattery’s Design Swarm show how architecture and engineering (AE) firms can cultivate a culture of learning while spotlighting the regions where they work. Des Moines not only served as the backdrop — but as a case study in how community, culture and design intersect.

As the AE industry continues to evolve, Des Moines positions itself as a place where design professionals can thrive — and where bold ideas are nurtured into meaningful outcomes.

Learn more at shive-hattery.com.

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