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June 2021 \ BUILDING DIALOGUE \ 67 A s master planned communities continue to gain popularity in the Denver metro area, finding a story that speaks to both new res- idents and the community they are joining becomes paramount. The RainDance devel- opment in Windsor is envisioned to create a modern, harmonious coexistence between functional farming and activated living in a safe, joyful and productive place for community. Serving as a hub for nostalgic fun, RainDance River Resort is a microcosm of its lively sur- roundings, designed to be a central source for a thriving community. RainDance River Resort acts as the resort next door, providing the community with a water park in its back- yard. The amenity space features Colorado’s largest lazy river, which is designed to connect the community with the rich agricultural and farming history of Northern Colorado. It’s a place where large-scale amenities cele- brate simple pleasures, where memories are made and relived on the water, underneath the sun and next to fruit-filled orchards. Situated within a 13.4-acre park, the resort-style pool occupies roughly 4 acres and is connected to passive and programmed open space, orchards and farmland through an extensive trail network. The entire park is carefully oriented to allow for stunning views of Long’s Peak and the Front Range. Anchored on the main road, widened sidewalks, golf cart parking and a network of connecting pathways make the resort easily accessible for residents. Primarily a private amenity, RainDance River Resort is municipal in scale and can accommodate up to 1,000 guests. Larger-than-life design elements are balanced by intimate gathering spaces. A silo tower water slide on the pool’s center island sends visitors flying into the cloud-shaped lazy riv- er in the form of the RainDance logo. A tractor crop splashpad offers interac- tive and playful water features. Open- air grain bin cabanas and hammock seating areas offer shade for small groups. A bar, farmhouse communi- ty building and picnic areas accom- modate larger celebrations. • Authentic details and repurposed materials. From shade structures to natural stone walls, materials at Rain- Dance River Resort are meant to last and age naturally. Every element of RainDance River Resort was designed to evoke an immersive experience of “living in the farm,” Drawing from the RainDance farm-themed palette, playful pieces are rooted in agricultural heritage. A working cen- ter pivot irrigation system runs through the heart of the resort and serves as a custom water feature – its tires leaving prints in the splashpad’s cement. Steel panels in sunflower patterns serve as decorative elements that cast changing shadows throughout the day. Other repur- posed materials include a chicken coop locker system and hay rack bike racks. Along the resort’s perimeter, mature trees purchased from a local nursery offer large areas of shade. Agrarian patterns guided the pool design and landscape planning around the resort. Windrows, hedges, grids and circular patterns establish unique visual elements and create an authentic harmony among agricultural, educa- tional and recreational places. Old tractors and farming equipment function as sculptures and water features to reinforce the area’s heritage. RainDance River Resort reinvigorates the notion of a watering hole with new ways to gather and relax. This modern take on a concept with historic significance pro- vides a community center designed to remind residents of the rich past while they enjoy gathering together in the present. Water is the lifeblood of a farm, and this characteristic is echoed in this community center. • Environmental sensitivity and sustainability. North- ern Colorado’s rich agricultural and farming history was founded on the successes of early settlers in establish- ing sustainable living. At RainDance River Resort, these Master Planning with a Perspective on History Mitch Black, PLA, LEED AP Principal, Norris Design Brock Reimer, PLA Principal, Norris Design A silo tower water slide on the pool’s center island sends visitors flying into the cloud-shaped lazy river. A tractor crop splashpad offers interactive and playful water features.