Architectural Gems Blog
Celebrating historic landmarks, majestic mansions, and iconic buildings in the Midwest and beyond!
Why I Love The Carnegie Library of Cedar Rapids, IA
See why I’m enchanted by this 1905 library
Terrace Hill – The Governor’s Mansion of Iowa
This home is a wonderfully preserved example of Second Empire architecture.
9 Historic Gas Stations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
These small structures show the direction of car culture.
The Grandeur of Veterans Memorial Building – Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Veterans Memorial Building is a unique public tribute to military service.
Grant Wood Window – Veterans Memorial Building
The window contains over 9,000 pieces of stained glass
The Brilliance of Sullivan’s Jewel Box Bank in Grinnell
This Sullivan bank is a study in ornamentation.
Iowa’s Only Courthouse on an Island
This 1925 Beaux Arts building is a hidden gem in plain sight.
A Luxurious Art Deco Train Station in Omaha
Experience an era when rail travel was glamorous
5 Historic Fire Stations in Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Beautiful brick “hose houses” from the 20th century
The Iowa State Capitol – A Prairie Palace
Iowa has one of the most impressive examples of state capitol architecture.
A Louis Sullivan That Defied The Wrecking Ball
Meet the handsomest building in Clinton, Iowa
See Czech Architectural History in New Bohemia
A tour of salvaged buildings with proud immigrant roots
A Sustainable Escape at Prairiewoods
I visited one of the only two LEED Gold buildings in Iowa.
Celebrating Frank Lloyd Wright’s 150th Anniversary
An inside peek into the Lowell House and the Robie House.
