Development

I transform once-grand houses into beautiful homes that integrate old world charm with modern amenities and technology.

Current Inventory/For Sale

We are underway on two properties directly next to each other on 24th in the Drake neighborhood and a third on Kingman Ave.

Both historic homes will be equipped with modern amenities and a ton of preserved charm. Tall ceilings, massive rooms, and a totally redeveloped site plan will make these homes show stoppers in the Drake Neighborhood.

These properties will be available in early 2024.

Explore our development projects

Completed Projects

Over the last decade in my career a deep passion has emerged towards renovating houses in Des Moines. The houses in really bad shape are the ones I gravitate towards the most. The projects supplement listings inventory each year. Click below to browse my portfolio of competed renovations.

Dogpatch Urban Gardens

Dogpatch Urban Gardens is an urban farm located in Des Moines, IA. We are known for our organically grown salad greens as well as other seasonal crops. We also have an Airbnb on site and host agri-inspired events such as our Farmstand to Fork Dinner series or DUG Unplugged.

DUG is a joint venture with my main boss…my wife, Jenny! Jenny oversees all business, marketing, retail, farming, co-packing, and operational activities. My contribution is to handle our property development activities. 

As you can imagine, transforming an empty parcel of land into a working urban farm with multiple growing plots, greenhouses, event spaces, production facilities and retail buildings is challenging. Not to mention restoring the neglected on-site house into a charming Airbnb!

Successfully managing our DUG development requires the same skill sets and activities I apply to all my client-based developments. And while I love all my development projects, there’s something special when the client is your family business!

Click here to read the DUG Story.

Before After
We transformed an empty lot into a working urban farm, retail garden center and Airbnb.

It’s not a house, it’s a home

I believe that many of the best houses in Des Moines were built decades ago. But too many of these properties have fallen victim to neglect, shoddy maintenance or simple old age. That's where I come in. I find houses whose souls have been buried by years of neglect and bring them back to life as unique, artful, and soulful living spaces.

Specializing in the Beaverdale, Oak Park, Waterbury, Drake Park, and near downtown Des Moines neighborhoods, I celebrate (not obliterate) the unique character of each property I restore. I transform once-grand houses into beautiful homes that integrate old world charm with modern amenities and technology.

The Process

More than slapping on a new coat of paint, I am always trying to ferret out the charm of the property; then figure out how to optimize its potential through contemporary architectural, design and construction practices. I don’t stop until each property is transformed into a soulful living space that inspires its new owner to create the life they desire.

To insure great design and quality workmanship, we engage professional architectural firms, design agencies, and building trade contractors on each project. Whenever possible these projects come with a 10 year tax abatement on the improved value as well.

I love grand reveals! And I’m especially product of our 2025 37th Street project reveal.

Like what you see? Call or message me and we'll chat.