CREJ

62 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / September 2019 The Grand is a new multifamily project in down- town Denver developed by Shorenstein Properties, designed by Shears Adkins Rockmore Architects and built by Saunders Construction. The project’s urban site (1777 Chestnut Place) is transitional, sit- ting between Lower Downtown, Commons Park and adjacent to Union Station, Denver’s massive transit center. Historically home to rail yards and elevat- ed viaducts, it’s now surrounded by a new light-rail train system, bus depot and pedestrian bridges, so transportation architecture has defined this site’s context for many decades. Given this location, res- idents can travel by foot, bike, train or car, which made it an incredibly attractive parcel for multi- family use. The site plan established two high-rise towers, each different in aesthetic, offering 508 residential apartments. This separation allows for more diverse branding possibilities, creates the opportunity for at-grade open space, and provides a competitive advantage to the neighboring multifamily projects that offer a singular aesthetic. SA+R intentionally positioned the two high-rise towers on the perime- ter to allow for a private landscaped court and bike workshop at the direct center of the development, easily accessed by residents of both buildings. This intervening space is accessed through a “woonerf,” a Dutch-inspired street where pedestrians and cy- clists have priority over vehicles. This court serves as a place for residents of both buildings to meet friends, grab a coffee and head to the fitness center directly above. It also provides access for the loading and unloading needs of the property. This now-finished project has undoubtedly tak- en an underutilized urban site and turned it into an engaging and thriving place to house Denver’s residents. It not only makes great strides in helping solve the city’s desire for more downtown housing options, but also creates an urban residential neigh- borhood strongly connected to the rest of the city via Denver’s expanding public transit infrastruc- ture. \\ SA+R: The Grand Transforms Rail Yards into Thriving Community 1. A full-service bike workshop, a key amenity for this transit- oriented site, rests at the rear street level of the North Tower and can be accessed through the woonerf. Courtesy David Lauer 2. At level 4 of the taller North Tower is a state-of the-art two- level fitness center designed to support the virtues of Colorado living – an amenity package that reflects and enhances a uniquely-Colorado experience. Featuring a ski simulator, a saline lap pool, a landscaped terrace, outdoor dining opportunities and fire-pits. Courtesy David Lauer 3. On the 23rd floor of the North Tower lives a double-height penthouse pavilion featuring panoramic views. This indoor/ outdoor shared space is available for private resident use daily or for special event rental for residents of the community. Courtesy David Lauer 4 The residential spaces convey a strong, modern luxury feel through their use of natural woods, exposed concrete and bright accents throughout. With features like built-in kitchen islands, smart storage and floor-to-ceiling glass, they invite residents in with a clearly oriented floor plan. Courtesy David Lauer 5. The North Tower residence, reaching 250 feet tall, is modern, progressive and elegant. It is composed of glass and steel and articulated with an aluminum frame consistent with the existing armatures. Surrounded by 140-foot-tall buildings, the North Tower allows for nearly 360-degree views of downtown Denver to the east and the Rocky Mountains to the west. Courtesy Ken Schroeppel 6.. Instead of a single architectural expression throughout the entire site, the North and South residences have their own distinctive architectural languages. This urban planning allows for more diverse branding possibilities and provides a competitive advantage to the neighboring multifamily projects. Courtesy David Lauer 1