Denver Dry Building

This photo shows the newly renovated exterior of the Denver Dry building.

Overview

  • Location: Denver, CO
  • Building type(s): Multi-unit residential, Commercial office, Retail
  • Renovation of a historic 1888 building
  • 350,000 ft2 (32,500 m2)
  • Project scope: a single building
  • Urban setting
  • Completed 1994
    The project was broken into 3 phases; two were completed in 1994 and the third began in 1997. The first two phases included 3 large retailers, the offices of DURA and the Denver Metro Convention and Visitors Bureau, as well as 51 rental apartment units. The last phase involves the creation of 64 condominiums.

The Denver Dry building spans two full city blocks and includes six floors plus a basement. Originally built in 1888, the building was downtown Denver's main department store for generations; it closed in 1987. After several failed attempts at redevelopment by the private sector, Denver Urban Renewal Authority (DURA) purchased the building and partnered with Jonathan Rose and the Affordable Housing Development Corporation (AHDC) to create a mixed-use development project that is enhancing the sense of community in the city.

Environmental Aspects

The most obvious environmental aspect of Denver Dry is its reuse of a preexisting structure. Though this tactic posed unique challenges, it also saved a considerable amount of resources. Since the building is located in downtown Denver, urban revitalization and support of public transportation are additional positive effects of the redevelopment. Finally, material and energy choices were made with efficiency and other environmental factors in mind.

Owner & Occupancy

  • Owned by Denver Urban Renewal Authority and Affordable Housing Development Corporation

Building Programs

Indoor Spaces:

Restrooms, Retail general, Gymnasium, Office, Living quarters

Keywords

Transportation benefits, Salvaged materials, Daylighting

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Last updated: 7/31/2003

Case Studies Database provided by the U.S. Department of Energy's
Building Technology Program, High Performance Buildings.

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