CREJ - Journal

/ BUILDING DIALOGUE / MARCH 2015

nchored on Lower Downtown’s histor-

ic Market Street is the Denver Metro

Chamber of Commerce. Coined the “ar-

chitects of Colorado’s past and future,”

the Chamber is the foundation of Denver’s busi-

ness landscape. Over the past 150 years, it has aid-

ed in the formation, acceleration and prosperity of

the city of Denver. Noted as a hub for innovation,

entrepreneurship and an unsurpassed quality of

life, it is clear that Denver has made its arrival to the

global stage. This arrival is echoed by the Chamber’s

re-imagined space. From locally sourced materials to

the collaborative environment, Denver was the muse

for every detail.

Beauty + Functionality

Elevator doors open to a spacious lobby drenched in

unrivaled Colorado sunshine from a coveted east-fac-

ing view. Much like this city, comprising many trans-

plants, the Chamber feels like home to all who visit.

Natural sandstone sweeps across the open floor plan,

leading to beetle-kill pine walls that connect the entire

space. Locally sourced, the pine walls celebrate Denver’s

resourcefulness, entrepreneurship and resilience. Cut-

ting-edge technology adorns the walls, a juxtaposition

of nature and science, beauty and function, similar to

the city’s business environment. From agriculture to

aerospace, Denver has said “yes” to a wide web of busi-

ness opportunities, and success has followed.

Connection to Nature

Biophilia – a hypothesis suggesting an instinctive

bond is formed between humans and living systems

existing in nature informed and inspired the Chamber

design. This bond is made evident by Denver’s inhabi-

tants and is magnified through the Chamber’s outdoor

enthusiasts. In the Chamber of Commerce a bio-wall

abundant with a variety of living plants provides se-

renity to hikers, bikers and climbers alike.

Kellie DePeder

Marketing

Coordinator,

Burkett-

Design