CREJ

DECEMBER 2016 \ BUILDING DIALOGUE \

ince opening our doors in Aspen more

than 13 years ago, our philosophy has

been that architecture, planning, interior

design, landscaping and urban design are

all interdependent. Residential or commercial, we

approach each project with an understanding of

its regional and environmental impact, as well as

the social, personal and professional needs it must

meet. That philosophy holds true for a singular R+B

commercial project, called Victorian Square, under

construction in Aspen’s downtown core.

Four years in the making, Victorian Square is an

iconic, three-story, 12,275-square-foot mixed-use build-

ing at the intersection of Hunter and Hyman avenues.

With a basement, two stories of above-grade commercial space, and

a third-story residential penthouse with panoramic views of Aspen

and the surrounding mountains, the structure is poised to become a

cornerstone of the community.

Through the use of innovative materials, a highly organic and

concept-driven design process, and strong and unique ties to the lo-

cal context, we have designed a new landmark structure that will

stand apart from typical contemporary development in the area. The

design maximizes net leasable and net residential area, and is con-

textual and appropriate from a form and mass perspective, both in

terms of the building’s character and its streetscape.

From the start, our approach to the architectural concept and de-

sign of Victorian Square was a collaborative effort between. Early de-

sign charrettes at our Aspen studio encouraged creative thinking in

regard to project requirements and goals, and enabled all involved to

participate in what would be a long-term partnership, from concept

through completion.

Set between Aspen’s downtown core and the contemporary, in-

ternationally renowned Aspen Art Museum, Victorian Square cele-

brates the dynamic spirit of Aspen’s rich history. At the base, a lapped

brick facade gives a nod to the neighboring historic brick buildings

and grounds the structure to the site. Currently running through

the production line, every single brick is made by hand – one at a

time – by Peterson Tegl, an innovative and craft-focused producer in

Denmark.

The second portion of the building, formed by a single, undulating

Bryan May, AIA,

NCARB

Architect,

Rowland+

Broughton