CREJ - Building Dialogue - March 2015
Anchored on Lower Downtown’s historic Market Street is the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce. Coined the “architects of Colorado’s past and future,”- the Chamber is the foundation of Denver’s business landscape. Over the past 150 years, it has aided in the formation, acceleration and prosperity of the city of Denver. Noted as a hub for innovation, entrepreneurship and an unsurpassed quality of life, it is clear that Denver has made its arrival to the global stage. This arrival is echoed by the Chamber’s re-imagined space. From locally sourced materials to the collaborative environment, Denver was the muse for every detail. Beauty + Functionality Elevator doors open to a spacious lobby drenched in unrivaled Colorado sunshine from a coveted east-facing view. Much like this city, comprising many transplants, the Chamber feels like home to all who visit. Natural sandstone sweeps across the open floor plan, leading to beetle-kill pine walls that connect the entire space. Locally sourced, the pine walls celebrate Denver’s resourcefulness, entrepreneurship and resilience. Cutting-edge technology adorns the walls, a juxtaposition of nature and science, beauty and function, similar to the city’s business environment. From agriculture to aerospace, Denver has said “yes” to a wide web of business opportunities, and success has followed. Connection to Nature Biophilia – a hypothesis suggesting an instinctive bond is formed between humans and living systems existing in nature informed and inspired the Chamber design. This bond is made evident by Denver’s inhabitants and is magnified through the Chamber’s outdoor enthusiasts. In the Chamber of Commerce a bio-wall abundant with a variety of living plants provides serenity to hikers, bikers and climbers alike. Pioneer Spirit Pioneers of the West were energetic, preserving, industrious, honest and bold, attributes that continue to inspire Denver’s residents – contributing to a unique perspective disrupting the typical cut-throat global business environment. The layering of understated and natural materials throughout the two level space, create a forward-thinking sense of discovery with a respectful nod to a pioneering past. Wild West Though there are no cowboy boots or 10-gallon hats to be seen, the atmosphere cultivates the independent spirit of Western heritage. The collaborative environment is untamed as vertical gardens climb and sprawl next to communal cubes fitted with treadmill desks and yoga ball seats. High-tech conference rooms see waves of local officials, real estate moguls and hopeful entrepreneurs, who all see bountiful opportunity in the Chamber’s muse. Collaborative spaces foster impassioned discussions between the Chamber’s diverse staff leading to trailblazing business decisions. The open staircase, floor plan and minds of the Chamber’s employees evokes movement and growth in a space as unrestricted as the American frontier. PROJECT TEAM GENERAL CONTRACTOR: Hyder Construction MECHANICAL/ELECTRICAL ENGINEER: MKK FURNITURE: Officescapes and Workplace Resources