Tempo East Village Wins 2026 Masonry Appreciation Award

Tempo East Village, a 110-unit apartment complex located at 317 E. Sixth St. In Des Moines, has received a 2026 Appreciation Award from the Masonry Institute of Iowa.

The award recognizes the development for its use of masonry in the construction of the residential building, which is situated in the city’s East Village district.

The property was developed by Heart of America Group, an organization that owns and operates a portfolio of commercial developments, hotels, and restaurants.

Development Specifications and Design

The Tempo East Village building encompasses 124,000 square feet of space. The project was designed as a luxury residential offering, incorporating modern design elements and upscale finishes.

Technical features of the building include state-of-the-art soundproofing and residential units with 9-foot ceilings. The apartments are designed with open concept floor plans, walk-in closets, and in-unit washers and dryers.

Residents have access to private patios and balconies that provide views of downtown Des Moines and the State Capitol.

Community Amenities

The development includes a variety of shared community amenities designed for residential use, including:

• A pool with views of the Capitol and a sundeck equipped with gas grills.
• A fully-equipped fitness center and a private fitness studio.
• A community room and a community kitchen.
• A private work room.
• A 24/7 package delivery room.
• Bike storage and a repair room.
• Tenant storage units.
• A dog park and a dog spa.

Market Recognition and Local Context

Beyond the professional recognition from the Masonry Institute of Iowa, the property has received consumer-based accolades. Tempo East Village was voted the Best Local Apartment Complex in Cityview’s Best awards.

The building is positioned near several local attractions and infrastructure, including the Lauridsen Skatepark and the Iowa Cubs Stadium, as well as various breweries, coffee shops, and restaurants.

The East Village area continues to serve as a hub for local events. Upcoming activities in the vicinity include the 2nd Annual Pearls & Pours on April 9, 2026, and the Bulbs & Brews tour at the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden on April 28, 2026.

The area will also host the 47th annual Capital City Pride from June 12 to June 14, 2026, and the 5th Annual East Village Blues Fest on June 13, 2026.

Developer Portfolio

Heart of America Group, the entity behind Tempo East Village, has expanded from a single 100-seat restaurant established in 1978 to a diversified portfolio of award-winning hospitality and real estate assets.

The group’s other recognized assets include the Hotel Renovo in Urbandale, which received a Silver Award for Best Hotel from Des Moines’ People’s Choice Awards, and various dining establishments such as Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse and the Machine Shed.