I was told that this was a must-see Des Moines site so yesterday morning Catherine and I went to see it for ourselves.
If you are in Des Moines, you are likely to see the capital’s golden dome gleaming from far away. We took the tour so I can tell you that that is real gold leaf, thinner than a hair, and that it has to be re-applied every 20-25 years.
The architectural details, both in and out, are really amazing and, now that I think about it, the whole place was really clean!
If you look down you’ll notice that the tile designs in the floors are varied and quilt-like…
But when you look up, your jaw will drop.
If you take the (free) tour, you get to go up to the the balcony high in the dome, just below the banks of lights that illuminate the space. I was standing there when I took the following photo, looking up…
…and then looking down to the floor far below, where the ‘x’ is. That’s a person walking away, to the right of the ‘x’.
Even the smallest details were not forgotten…
door hinge
thermostat
window pull
sconce arm
There’s more to share tomorrow but for now let me say that this really is a nice place to visit. Way to go, Iowa!
Piece O Cake Blog 
I am a native Iowan and last time I visited the Capital I too came away with all those beautiful tile photos (reminded me of quilts). My step-father worked on reapplying the gold leaf on the dome about 35 years ago. It’s quite a job! I attended the fair last year with grade school friends–it’s the best state fair! Enjoy your blog and can’t wait to see what you post tomorrow.
LikeLike
Love the tiles, possible quilt pattern ideas?? Loving all the beautiful work that went into the brass fixtures! People used to take pride in their work, now it seems everything is poor quality and mass produced. Looks like you picked a beautiful day for the visit, great pictures!
LikeLike
A beautiful building with so much history. A real treasure. Looking forward to more great pictures.
LikeLike
What a gorgeous place to visit. They don’t make buildings like that any more. If I ever get to Des Moines I will be sure to check it out. Great photography, too, Becky.
LikeLike
that is a beautiful building, inside and out. Keep the photos coming. I could see a quilt out of the floor tiles !! If only there were more time!!
LikeLike