artist and designer behind DSM House of Design Des Moines

About DSM
House of Design

DSM House of Design is more than a space—it’s a story.

What began as a dream of creating one-of-a-kind garments has grown into a creative home in the heart of Des Moines. A place where fashion, art, history, and community all live under one roof.

The house itself carries its own legacy. Once part of a historic machine shop property, the space now shares walls with Reasoner’s Garage—a family business that’s been running strong since 1903. Before that, the building housed Des Moines Ornamental Iron Works, leaving behind a foundation full of grit, craftsmanship, and character.

Today, that history meets something new.

Fresh thread. Bold ideas. Creative energy.

DSM House of Design is a place to gather, create, celebrate, and connect—whether you’re here for a photoshoot, a custom garment, a craft night, or simply to be inspired.

Meet Chelsey Faye

Hi, I’m Chelsey Faye—designer, seamstress, painter, jewelry-maker, and lifelong creative.

My story starts at seven years old, sitting beside my sweet Grandma “B,” learning how to sew. She taught me more than just technique—she taught me how to see possibility. How to turn scraps into something meaningful. How to create magic out of what others might overlook.

That mindset still shapes everything I do.

I design with intention, often working with repurposed materials, layered textures, and unexpected combinations. My work lives somewhere between fashion, costume, and art—each piece is completely one-of-a-kind.

Alongside design, I’ve spent 25 years as a makeup artist, an experience that deeply shaped my understanding of transformation, confidence, and self-expression.

For 15 years, I also worked alongside my dad in his private fire investigation business—an entirely different world that taught me discipline, resilience, and how to build something from the ground up. After his passing in 2024, I knew it was time to fully step into my own dream.

So I did.

In 2023, DSM House of Design was born. And not long after, we found this space—equal parts history and potential—and brought it back to life with the help of my husband Dan, our friend Curt, and an incredible community of talented hands.

Now, this space reflects everything I love: creativity, collaboration, and a little bit of chaos in the best way.

The seven-year-old with the sewing machine would be very proud.