Grand 1928 Estate in Des Moines, Iowa Featuring 6 Fireplaces, a Walnut-Paneled Library, Resort-Style Pool, and Over 2 Acres

This stunning historic estate, located in the prestigious South of Grand neighborhood in Des Moines, Iowa, epitomizes timeless elegance and modern luxury. Set on over 2 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the c. early 20th-century brick home showcases classic Georgian Revival architectural details such as a symmetrical façade, shuttered windows, and slate roof. Spanning more than 7,000 square feet, it boasts 6 bedrooms, 7 baths, 6 fireplaces, and two master suites, complemented by recent full-scale renovations including a gourmet kitchen, new boiler, partial slate roof, and state-of-the-art security. With a detached pool house, resort-like amenities, and serene woodland privacy—all minutes from downtown—this move-in ready retreat is listed for $2,900,000.

Estate Aerial View

A large historic brick home is nestled among mature green trees, surrounded by expansive lawns that offer both privacy and tranquility. The property features a sweeping circular driveway made of patterned concrete or stone, guiding vehicles to the main entrance. Adjacent to the house, a kidney-shaped swimming pool sits within a spacious stone patio, complete with outdoor seating and recreational areas. The estate blends traditional architecture—steeply pitched slate roofs, gabled dormers, and brick facades—with lush landscaping, shaded walkways, and manicured garden beds, creating a grand yet welcoming atmosphere that emphasizes elegance and seclusion.

Front Entrance Gate

A classic red brick pillar fence marks the entryway, featuring a black lantern on one side and the house number 3545 visible in solid silver numbers. The front yard is lush and gently sloped, with a well-maintained array of flower beds blooming in shades of golden yellow and rosy pink. Mature trees with twisting branches frame the entrance, adding dappled shade and softness. In the background, a stately red brick historic home with white-trimmed windows and manicured hedges peeks through, suggesting a welcoming and traditional American estate aesthetic. The palette is warm and natural, evoking charm and timelessness.

Front Entryway

A classic front porch connects seamlessly to a historic red brick house, featuring large white-trimmed windows with black shutters. The entryway is framed by two tall, white columns supporting an ornate portico with intricate molding. Stone steps lead up to the porch, which is paved in light gray slabs. Landscaping near the walkway includes lush hydrangea bushes with clusters of pink and green blossoms, set against neatly mulched beds bordered by stonework. Mature trees and greenery provide shade and a sense of privacy, contributing to the stately yet inviting curb appeal of this home’s main entrance.

Front Exterior

Grand brick mansion set against a backdrop of lush green trees and a soft sunset sky. The house features classic Georgian architectural style with a symmetrical facade, multiple gables, dormer windows on a steep slate roof, and prominent chimneys. The central entrance is marked by a white columned archway, accentuated by trimmed hedges and mature landscaping. A spacious circular driveway leads up to the main entrance, bordered by manicured shrubs and a stately evergreen. The attached garage is seamlessly connected by a breezeway, balancing practicality with elegance and enhancing the stately curb appeal of the property.

Front Door Entry

A stately entrance featuring a glossy black six-panel door framed by wide white trim and flanked by two imposing white columns. The red brick exterior is accented with white architectural details and black louvered shutters on two symmetrical windows. Classic black urn planters, each holding a manicured round shrub, sit on either side of the doorway, matched by two small black dog statues at the base of the columns. A lantern-style light fixture hangs under a barrel-vaulted arch above the door, casting a welcoming warm glow, while the brickwork extends to the floor forming a neat herringbone porch. The address number 8545 is displayed above the door.

Aerial Property View

A grand brick historic home with a classic slate gray, patterned roof and elegant white trim is seen from above. The property features meticulously landscaped gardens, lush green lawns, and mature trees bordering the estate, creating privacy and tranquility. To the left, a distinctive kidney-shaped swimming pool with a surrounding red-brick border sits adjacent to a white pool house with tall arched windows and neatly arranged greenery. The expansive driveway fans out from a circular brick center, with radiating pathways lined by manicured shrubs. The home’s stately architecture and the harmonious outdoor setting reflect timeless American elegance.

Backyard and Pool

Aerial view highlights the expansive backyard centered around a circular swimming pool with a paved patio border, flanked by two outbuildings or pool houses. The historic red brick home features classic dormer windows, tall chimneys, and a slate gray roof, with a large circular driveway leading to an attached garage. The lush, mature trees surrounding the property create a sense of privacy and seclusion, while extensive green lawns and garden structures add to the estate’s stately ambiance. A mix of bright blue, deep greens, and warm red brick provide a classic yet inviting atmosphere amid the natural landscape.

Backyard Fire Pit

A spacious backyard features a circular fire pit area with rustic wooden benches and Adirondack chairs arranged for gathering. The ground around the fire pit is covered in dark mulch bordered by a stone edge, providing a clean, defined space. Several large trees offer dappled shade, with neatly trimmed grass extending towards a stately red brick home boasting white window trim, dormer windows, and a prominent brick chimney. Logs are stacked nearby for easy access, and the setting is inviting, blending natural wooden seating with the historic elegance of the home, encouraging both relaxation and outdoor entertaining.

Poolside Courtyard

An expansive backyard courtyard is centered around a large, kidney-shaped swimming pool, bordered with a wide, terracotta-toned deck and surrounded by neatly paved concrete tiles with brick accents. The pool area features a diving board and entry steps, with lounge chairs and shaded seating strategically placed near the water. Mature trees and manicured shrubs border the space, providing privacy and lush greenery. To one side, a wooden deck with outdoor sofas overlooks the pool, while a striped umbrella shades a dining area. The adjacent structures show classic slate roofing and brickwork, harmonizing traditional architecture with relaxed, outdoor living spaces.

Backyard Pool Area

A spacious backyard features a large, oval-shaped swimming pool surrounded by a wide concrete patio with red-brick trim. The elegant, historic brick house in the background boasts tall windows with dark shutters, a steeply pitched slate roof, and white trim. There is a shaded patio dining area with a black metal table and striped umbrellas, as well as a built-in stainless steel grill and a hot tub nearby. Two white Adirondack chairs sit on the far side of the pool, under the shade of tall green trees and next to a black wrought iron fence. The setting feels classic and inviting.

Poolside Patio

Expansive outdoor pool area with a bright blue, kidney-shaped swimming pool surrounded by red rubberized decking. The patio is paved with large, light-colored concrete slabs with brick accents, creating a clean and organized look. White planters with manicured shrubs line the edge, while a classic white building featuring arched French doors and black lantern sconces anchors the right side. The far end of the patio shows an outdoor fireplace and neatly trimmed landscaping under tall, leafy trees, offering a serene, private atmosphere. Black-and-white-striped umbrellas and a poolside basketball hoop add a touch of playful elegance.

Garden Gazebo

A picturesque garden gazebo sits on a raised wooden platform with three broad steps leading up from a stone path. The gazebo has a prominent green shingled roof with a distinctive flared shape and is supported by white columns and railings. Beneath the roof, a round black metal table with matching chairs provides a shaded seating area. The surrounding landscape is lush with leafy green shrubs, mulch beds, and mature trees offering dappled sunlight. In the background, a charming red barn with white trim adds a pop of color, enhancing the inviting and serene atmosphere of the outdoor space.

Kitchen and Dining

A spacious, elegantly appointed kitchen flows effortlessly into a light-filled dining area. The kitchen’s focal point is a large marble-topped island with dark wood cabinetry and gleaming chrome handles, surrounded by gray cabinetry and a high-end range. Overhead, an ornate coffered ceiling painted white creates depth and grandeur, complemented by sparkling crystal chandeliers. Large-pane windows fill the space with natural light, illuminating polished marble floors and neutral rugs. The dining area features a long wooden table with classic chairs, blending traditional architectural details with fresh, airy modernity. Abundant light and symmetry lend a welcoming, luxurious atmosphere throughout.

Dining Room View

A spacious dining area with floor-to-ceiling windows on three sides, filling the room with natural light and offering a clear view of a swimming pool and manicured grounds outside. The color palette features soft creams and whites, giving a clean and classic feel. A long rectangular table with eight bamboo-style chairs and neutral upholstered seats sits on a textured area rug. Above the table, an elegant crystal chandelier adds a touch of glamour. Molded ceiling panels and detailed trimwork enhance the room’s architectural interest, and a painted brick wall is adorned with floral artwork, adding subtle color.

Attic Lounge

Spacious attic lounge area with dark glossy wood floors and sloped ceilings. A striking feature is the large pink velvet sectional sofa arranged on a white shag rug, centered around a modern fireplace beneath a wall-mounted TV with a textured stone surround. To one side, a cozy seating area with a round white table and green velvet chairs with gold legs adds a touch of luxury. Built-in shelving lines the angled walls, displaying decorative baskets and books. Bright, recessed lighting keeps the space open and welcoming, while a black, contemporary ceiling fan and unique modern light fixtures add flair.

Bedroom Sitting Area

Spacious and airy bedroom featuring a modern four-poster bed with white bedding and a blush pink throw. The color scheme is soft and neutral, dominated by white walls, warm gray paneling, and dark wooden floors that add contrast and elegance. Two windows allow natural light to brighten the space, with one window framed by an inviting reading nook. The room includes a cozy sitting area with two black-framed chairs with cane seats and a minimalist black coffee table placed on a large textured cream rug. Abstract wall art and subtle lighting fixtures create a calm, contemporary ambiance.

Bathroom Vanity Area

A spacious bathroom with a luxurious, contemporary aesthetic features marble walls and floors throughout. The double shower is enclosed in glass, with two shower heads and sleek chrome fixtures. To the left, a black vanity table with gold accents holds a large ornate mirror, illuminated by a modern wall sconce. A plush emerald green chair adds a pop of color. A white sink with dark cabinetry sits nearby. The centerpiece is a large, patterned area rug that adds softness to the marble. To the right, a gleaming gold towel rack holds neatly folded white towels, enhancing the sophisticated and elegant vibe.

Living Room Details

Spacious living room with a warm, inviting atmosphere. The area features large windows along one wall, framed with cream curtains, that allow abundant natural light and offer views of lush greenery outside. Walls are painted a soft, golden beige with elegant white trim and molding. Neutral-toned sofas, a pair of armchairs, and a royal blue tufted sectional are arranged around a dark wood coffee table atop an ornate gray rug. Soft, patterned throw pillows add comfort, while modern floor and table lamps contribute warm lighting. Adjacent open spaces lead to a dining area with classic furniture and built-in shelving, emphasizing a cohesive yet sophisticated aesthetic.

Library Sitting Area

Rich wood paneling covers the walls, giving the room a warm, traditional feel. A classic crystal chandelier hangs overhead, casting light over a deep red Persian-style area rug and a simple rectangular coffee table. A grey upholstered sofa lines one wall, facing a large wood-framed window dressed in navy blue curtains. The fireplace is elegant, with a dark marble hearth and a wood mantel topped with decorative vases and a mirror. A mid-century modern yellow armchair sits near the fireplace, while a framed painting of a lighthouse on the wall adds a nautical touch. The overall ambiance is sophisticated and cozy.

Entry Hall Details

Upon entering, the eye is drawn to dramatic dark green wallpaper adorned with white zebras, creating a playful yet sophisticated atmosphere. The lower half of the walls is finished with crisp white wainscoting, complementing the white trim around paneled doors. The floor features large marble tiles bordered by a black tile inlay, adding elegance and contrast. An ornate gold-framed mirror hangs above a tufted bench with bamboo legs. A brass table lamp, candlesticks, and decorative books rest on a slim glass console. Overhead, a crystal chandelier casts shimmering light, while arched doorways lead to neighboring rooms with wood parquet floors.

Bedroom Fireplace

A spacious bedroom with classic and elegant design elements features a large bed with white bedding placed against a wall of paneled wainscoting. Opposite the bed, there is a striking fireplace with a white mantel and black marble surround. Above the mantel hangs a large flat-screen television framed by a deep, dark accent wall. Two plush emerald green armchairs sit symmetrically on either side of the fireplace, each with a decorative cushion. The ceiling boasts an ornate black medallion and a sparkling chandelier, while gold sconces and floral-patterned curtains add warmth and softness to the space. Hardwood floors and a pale area rug complete the sophisticated look.

Bathroom Details

A luxurious bathroom displays rich, dark green marble surfaces covering the floor, countertops, and bathtub surround, creating an opulent and cohesive look. The cabinetry and wall panels are crafted from warm, polished wood, forming a striking contrast to the cool marble. Large mirrors above the dual sinks reflect both natural light from two multi-pane windows and the soft, ambient lighting from several wall sconces and recessed ceiling lights. Brass fixtures on sinks and the shower add a touch of vintage elegance. Decorative elements include crisp white hand towels with monogrammed detailing and a pot of white orchids near the tub for a refined finish.

Bedroom Suite

Spacious bedroom with polished light hardwood floors and deep blue wall panels framed in crisp white moldings, lending a nautical and classic aesthetic. A large bed is dressed in white bedding, positioned against one wall, with a contemporary silver ceiling fan overhead. To one side, a wooden dresser stands next to an open door leading into a white-tiled bathroom. The room is lit warmly by matching recessed ceiling lights and a table lamp on a black nightstand. A blue and white striped area rug adds to the coastal charm, while an open door reveals a hallway with matching wood flooring and decorative art.

Upstairs Hallway

A wide upstairs hallway with polished light oak wooden floors and creamy beige paneled walls, featuring crisp white trim and crown molding. The banister features classic white spindles with a dark wood handrail curving gracefully along the stair opening. At the end of the hallway, there is a black console table topped with minimalist decor including candles and a small arrangement, flanked by two elegant wall sconces in gold finish. Above the table, there is a striking framed portrait of a woman with flowers in her hair. The aesthetic blends traditional architecture with tasteful, contemporary art and lighting.

Nursery Details

This softly lit nursery features creamy off-white walls and a large, pale patterned area rug atop honey-toned wood floors. A white crib with a plush pastel blanket rests in the corner, accompanied by a white dresser topped with a changing pad. Animal-themed art prints hang above a simple organizer with cloth bins. The room is accented by modern recessed lighting and a large white ceiling fan with a sleek, contemporary design. Architectural details include a classic white door, thick baseboards, and an open doorway leading to another brightly colored room. The décor imparts a cozy, soothing, and organized ambiance.

Bedroom Details

A spacious bedroom with three large windows fills the space with natural light, complemented by soft yellow walls and honey-hued hardwood flooring. The bed, dressed in pastel linens with whimsical patterns, serves as the room’s focal point, flanked by plush pillows in light blue and blush tones. A vividly colored, abstract-patterned area rug adds a playful touch and contrasts beautifully with the otherwise muted décor. Storage is provided by white-painted bookshelves and a glass-fronted display cabinet. Artworks and framed prints adorn the walls, and a modern ceiling fan hangs above. Radiators beneath the windows suggest classic architecture, blending old and new aesthetics.

Living Room and Bar

A spacious open-concept living room merges with a bar area, filled with natural light pouring through large arched windows and glass doors. Exposed white wooden ceiling trusses and beams highlight the architectural charm, echoed by the paneled ceilings. The seating area features floral-upholstered sofas arranged in a U-shape around a simple wooden coffee table and round poufs, creating a cozy conversational space. Potted plants and table lamps add a touch of greenery and warmth. The nearby bar sports white countertops with a hanging rack above for wine glasses, complemented by wicker barstools, giving the room a relaxed, elegant atmosphere with light, airy tones.

Listing Agent: DIANE TODD BROWN of Iowa Realty Mills Crossing via Zillow