About us

Design 515 is a design firm that focuses on providing sustainable solutions to high-end residential and commercial design projects.

 

Cynthia O’Brien, an Associate with the American Institute of Architects and is a LEED Accredited Professional founded Design 515 in 2014. Cynthia's focus is to raise the awareness of green building and sustainable design in the residential market. 

She holds a Master of Architecture degree from Iowa State University, and a B.F.A. from Drake University in Architectural Interior Design with a Business Marketing Minor and an emphasis in Art History. 

Cynthia is active in the community serving on boards such as the Greater Des Moines Public Art Foundation, the Des Moines Public Library Foundation, The National Society of The Colonial Dames of America in the State of Iowa and The O'Brien Family Foundation.