A concept that is most likely currently in development, What if we could see into the structures of the buildings around us, similar to x-ray vision? Would extreme stress like this be exhilaratingly mind-altering or bittersweetly overwhelming? MAD Architects has undisputedly proven the former One River North residential building in Denver, Colorado. Its large, canyon-like opening dramatically breaks up the exterior, revealing the stunning interior composition.
Located in Denver's northern River North Art District (RiNo) under the watchful gaze of the nearby Rocky Mountains, the building features 187 rental units on 15 floors and a 9,000 square foot ground floor retail area. The crack of the natural terrain cuts through the glass facade from the sixth to the ninth floors.
Founded in Beijing in 2004 with offices in Los Angeles and Rome, MAD was guided by the desire to revitalize urban life by combining natural experiences with modern architecture. This new, immersive living experience can not only strengthen relationships between its residents, but also provide structure to their ever-evolving connection to the natural world.
The city of Denver is known for its rugged mountains and deep canyons that lovingly embrace its urban area. Located near the city center, RiNo has undergone a multi-faceted transformation. Formerly known as an industrial hub, the district has opened up and become a thriving cultural center for Colorado's abstract thinkers, artistic minds, outdoor enthusiasts and community builders.
While One River North addresses Denver's need for densely populated housing, it is primarily focused on providing an accessible, wellness-focused way of life, exploration, vitality, an active mind and, most interestingly, a modern take on togetherness promotes.
When scanning One River North, you can immediately see the connection between the indoor and outdoor spaces, as the outdoor planting and materials flow elegantly into the interior. Its carved out center, which potentially gives its architecture a shape-shifting effect, further emphasizes this synergy. The four-story leisure area is based on natural rock formations and its design is reminiscent of a slot canyon. The plastered, cave-like elements contrast starkly – albeit poetically – with the smooth geometric lines of the building mass.
The canyon-like vertical structure includes over 13,000 square feet of “floating” terraces with outdoor seating, gardens and water features, connected to all indoor amenities so residents can make the most of it from multiple levels. The outdoor staircase is designed to simulate the mountainous hiking trails throughout the state of Colorado.
Plantings are spread across all levels, including the canyon base vegetation at the start of the canyon and the pine trees on the roof. Natural allusions can even be found in the building's apartments, with fine wooden details being used in the interior of some living rooms.
The landscaping of the unique feature reflects the state's natural conditions and plant life. It has been curated with resilient plant species selected after wind and solar analysis as the greenery will thrive and the “microclimate” will expand over time. The canyon rises over the broken facade of One River North and culminates on the rooftop terrace, sixteen stories above street level. There is an alpine area with a pool with a waterfall, a spa and a spacious garden with views of the Denver skyline, adding to the exquisite ambience.
MAD Architects' Denver gem has received Fitwel certification in recognition of its commitment to supporting the physical and mental health of its residents. The certification is awarded to fewer than 1,000 buildings worldwide and reflects the project's pioneering approach to mixed-use construction. The carefully curated and deeply engaging three-dimensional architectural wonder promotes well-being, community and, above all, an inspiring integration of nature.