With renovations complete on the second floor of The Terrace, Wesley Des Moines is now turning its attention to The Terrace Auditorium and dining room.
In addition to new furnishings and finishes—such as carpet, paint and lighting—these areas will undergo a more extensive transformation. A demonstration kitchen, full service bistro and private dining room will be added. At the other end of the room, the auditorium will become the Julia C. Moser Performing Arts Center.
“The vision is to make the auditorium into a true performing arts center,” says Susan McConnell, Executive Director of Wesley Community Foundation. “We’ve been working with a very talented group of residents, our generous donors and the designers to develop a space that will better support high quality performances and entertainment.”
Designing for Better Sound, Access and Entertainment
To bring this vision to life, the team explored options to improve sound, lighting and accessibility. Wesley Des Moines’ architect, Jill Krance from InSite Architects, worked with the team to add a ramp and extend the stage. Modifications will be made backstage as well and throughout the area. Dena Erickson from Studio Belle collaborated with Jill on the interior design, reimagining the space with new color schemes, furnishings and finishes.
The new sound system features a state of the art Aura system. This new technology is expected to replace the older copper hearing loop systems. Aura offers higher-quality sound for those with hearing devices and can connect via smartphone or belt pack until future hearing aid upgrades are available.
Other A/V enhancements include:
- New microphones, speakers, projector and screen
- A centralized control panel with preset options and remote Bluetooth access
- Future-ready expandability for video cameras and additional equipment
Enhanced Lighting and Theater-Ready Stage
In addition to new chandeliers and lighting throughout the space, the performing arts team has engaged a designer to provide lighting for performances on the stage. The curtains on the stage will be replaced with a design more common to theatrical performances. A professional lighting system will be hung above and just in front of the stage as well.
Dining with More Options and Style
Wesley’s culinary partner, Morrison Living, is helping reimagine the dining experience with:
- A demonstration kitchen for interactive events
- A new full-service bistro
- A private dining room
- A more open and engaging layout
These updates will expand meal variety and offer a more vibrant dining experience for residents and guests.
What’s Next?
The Terrace Auditorium and dining room work is expected to begin in October 2025. A more detailed project timeline will be shared with residents at an upcoming meeting in August. To follow the big changes at The Terrace at Wesley Des Moines, be sure to read the monthly Development Update in future issues of eWesley. Sign up for eWesley below if you haven’t already:
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