CREJ

March 2022 / BUILDING DIALOGUE / 41 ELEMENTS Integrating Art Finally, developers should look to incorporate interac- tive, mixed-used public spaces into commercial design. Art can help to define and enhance open concepts, from a residential lobby to a rooftop patio. Site-specific art can leverage these spaces into memorable places, invoking creativity and dialogue among visitors. Projects like Denver’s Union Hall promote innova- tion, inclusivity and impact through their public spaces. Known as a “cultural concierge” in the city, Union Hall uses art as the focal point to trigger conversation and community for guests and locals alike. Altogether, these three trends point to the power of art to create community and place. After all, 96% of the business leaders we surveyed see art as a way to create unique, memorable experiences that improve the quality of life for those who use the space. Yet only 69% of those respondents reported thinking about art prior to break- ing ground. The takeaway here is that art is most powerful when it’s integrated early in the planning stages, rather than late in design, where it threatens to become a disregard- ed decorative afterthought. After all, over 80% of our sur- vey participants agreed that thinking about art early in the brand and vision stages will improve the overall out- come of the project. Ultimately, a developer’s goal is to turn a space into a destination that will generate a healthy bottom line. To achieve this goal and harness the strength of commercial trends, developers should incorporate art and culture through careful planning and promotion from day one. Only then will they harmonize with design, architecture and other creative elements to establish an unmatched sense of community in their next commercial project.\\ letstalk@ninedotarts.com Origin Hotel Mural: Artist: Chris Silva