CREJ

/ BUILDING DIALOGUE / SEPTEMBER 2017

planning and design. The existing gridded street fabric of adjacent 1950s

neighborhoods was respected and interpreted for a more compact living

space. Porch-lined streets emphasize a pedestrian-friendly environment.

A central open space spine called the Promenade bisects Midtown,

connecting each block with green space, pedestrian walkways, and is

anchored on either end with park areas that host activities for every age

group. Small individual yards are adjacent to larger greenspaces, extend-

ing the sense of shared space balanced with private areas. Front porches

face onto the Promenade, and neighbors mingle as their kids play in the

community’s shared “front yard.”

… And a New Take on Amenities

A community-sized Main Street acts as the heart of Midtown with a

community building that provides a gathering space with a brew pub and

coffee shop. The community building hosts gatherings and celebrations,

both private and for the community at large, reconfiguring for each occa-

sion.

The large Community Garden area allows residents to garden close to

home with larger plots of land. Located in the center of the community,

the popular garden plots give residents a great opportunity to interact with

their neighbors in a shared interest.

On the Promenade, a unique splash pool takes the place of a tradition-

al swimming pool experience. This interactive water feature designed for

children of all ages was inspired by the area’s historic use of irrigation ca-

nals, ditches and flood irrigation for agriculture. A series of operable flood

gates allow kids to manipulate the flow of water, and a computer-operated

fountain creates an ever-changing display and splash experience.

The Best of Community

A model for new urban communities in Denver, Midtown both honors

the past and embraces the future. Repurposing the land and revitalizing

an established neighborhood, Midtown set a new standard for what neigh-

borhoods can be.

/ Midtown: Defining a New Community /

PHOTOS:

John Birkey/Norris Design

OPENING ART:

A community-sized Main Street acts as

the heart of Midtown.

ABOVE LEFT:

A unique splash pool takes the place of a

traditional swimming pool experience.

ABOVE RIGHT:

The interactive water feature was

inspired by the area’s historic use of

irrigation canals, ditches and flood

irrigation for agriculture.