Heart of America Group Opens New Des Moines Apartments

The seven-story development at 603 E. Sixth St. brings 161 new residential units to the city.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Modern seven-story brick and glass apartment building exterior under a clear bright sky in downtown Des Moines. — Heart of America Group has completed a new 161-unit apartment complex in downtown Des Moines at 603 E. Sixth St. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Heart of America Group has completed a new seven-story apartment building in Des Moines, replacing the former American College of Hairstyling. The project offers 161 units ranging from studios to two-bedroom floor plans.

Why it matters

The development contributes to the housing stock in the downtown area by transforming a previously occupied commercial site into a residential space with modern amenities.

The seven-story building represents a $50 million investment and features 161 apartment units. Starting monthly rent is priced at $1,300.

The players

Heart of America Group

This real estate and development firm is responsible for the construction and management of the new seven-story apartment complex in Des Moines.

The details

Constructed at 603 E. Sixth St., the building features soundproofing and amenities including pickleball courts, bocce courts, a fitness center, and a dog park. The complex also provides residents with access to underground parking.

November 2026 is the expected start date for move-ins.
A grand opening event is scheduled for the coming weeks.

Market Landscape

This project continues the trend of redeveloping historic or former commercial properties into modern, amenity-rich residential hubs. It positions the developer to capture demand from urban renters seeking walkable access to downtown infrastructure.

Prospective tenants looking for downtown living can expect starting rents of $1,300 per month beginning this November. The addition of 161 units increases overall inventory, potentially offering more options for city-center commuters.

The takeaway

The transformation of the former American College of Hairstyling site highlights a significant investment in downtown Des Moines residential capacity. Residents will benefit from specialized community amenities, including integrated recreational courts and pet-friendly infrastructure.