The structure’s most striking feature, a 10-story landscaped rift that defines its exterior, is inspired by Colorado’s diverse biomes and recalls the experience of ascending from the foothills to the trail and canyon, to reaching the alpine plateau. This unparalleled experience increases resident views and blends nature into the urban landscape.
“One River North is the model for how we should be living, surrounding ourselves in the natural environment, bringing nature into our homes and creating authentic, biophilic experiences coupled with modern comforts and conveniences,” said Kevin Ratner, co-founder of The Max Collaborative. “The nature-inspired design by MAD Architects was influenced by Colorado’s legendary landforms and merges nature and architecture to inspire a well-balanced life. Its glass façade is likewise ribbed with louvers that regulate sunlight and soften its visual presence, shaping a serene retreat in the sky.”
“If we regard modern cities as man-made landscape on the earth, we need to design canyons, woods, creeks, and waterfalls, transforming concrete forests into second nature,” said Ma Yansong, MAD founder and principal partner.
One of the most architecturally distinctive projects to start construction in the River North (RiNo) neighborhood of Denver, One River North Residences is located right across the street from the 38th and Blake RTD Light Rail Station.
The design architect, MAD Architects, is based out of Beijing, China, and local Denver architect-of-record, Davis Partnership, designed one of the most iconic buildings downtown Denver will encounter. This project will entail building high-rise, luxury for rent residences with ground-floor retail. The structure will feature a carved-out, 4-story core, resembling a slot canyon, comprising over 13,000 square feet of water elements and landscaping. The 343,000-square-foot building will also include the following:
• Three levels of underground parking
• 16 stories above grade
• 187 residential units
• 9,000 square feet of retail space
• Post-tensioned concrete
• Pool and waterfall
• Rooftop and open spaces
Saunders’ construction operations team was heavily involved in the preconstruction and pre-planning efforts. As seen on many downtown Denver projects, the team is expected to perform de-watering operations while excavating the site for underground parking. Construction on the residential space started in mid-2021 with completion slated for late 2023.
Rendering courtesy of MAD Architects and Davis Partnership Architects
