Reaching is an event space in Greenwood Park shaped by the feeling of connection across distance. Inspired by a natural axis framed by White Oak trees, the project stretches uphill, aligning with the landscape’s forced perspective.

A glass stair and hall form the central axis, guiding visitors through moments of compression and release—tight spaces opening into expansive views. Dual entrances from the rose garden and lower sidewalk reinforce the theme of upward and downward reach.

Tree mapping informed the building’s placement, preserving views and minimizing disruption. Materials echo the nearby Des Moines Art Center, with limestone and contrasting wood floors.

The design mimics nature’s spatial rhythm, using architecture to reach toward the site itself. Reaching was selected as a Hansen Award finalist.