SEPTEMBER 2016 \ BUILDING DIALOGUE \
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on the property? What densities and housing
types are acceptable (and desired)? What fea-
tures currently exist on the site that should be
maintained, changed or enhanced? Early design
studies explore all of these questions, and test as-
sumptions against the market objectives. Also key
at this point is consideration of how and when to
involve neighbors in the process. Their input to
and participation in an informed process in which
they play a part contributes to the community’s ul-
timate success.
Three developments that occupy different niches
in Colorado’s spectrum of attainable housing demon-
strate how important this early planning is to the ul-
timate success of each:
Mariposa’s Focus on Connections
Denver Housing Authority’s Mariposa Phase 4 (87
units) is in a mixed-use, TOD, redeveloping neighbor-
hood in Denver’s South Lincoln Park. DHA’s vision was
to create a new Denver neighborhood to provide both a
link to the surrounding community and on-site opportu-
nities for residents to connect through fitness and gather-
ing spaces. Planned early in the design process, the street-
scape design activates 10th Avenue as it connects to Santa
Fe and the art district near the 10th and Osage light-rail
station. Engaging playgrounds focused on families and an
early childhood education center are key elements of the
courtyard formed by the new homes. Also featured in this
central gathering area is an outdoor fire pit, community
greenhouse and gardens. In addition to promoting healthy
eating and gardening activities, the courtyard contains a
play and fitness zone featuring outdoor elements for adults
and children. Public art is the centerpiece of the courtyard
– a sculpture tower designed and built by local school chil-
dren reflects the multicultural aspects of their community.
The result: authentic connections that physically extend
into the adjacent community fabric and help weave a pos-
itive everyday lifestyle within Mariposa.
Midtown: Reclaiming a Brownfield to Grow a Community
Midtown is a landmark transformation of a 182-acre
brownfield site into a vibrant, new, mixed-use Denver
neighborhood just five minutes from downtown. This for-
mer heavy-industrial site is being remade as a traditional
neighborhood with 21st century amenities. Adjacent to the
Clear Creek greenway and regional trails, and within walk-
ing distance to three transit stations, Midtown is evolving
into a healthy urban neighborhood with a mix of tradi-
tional and affordable housing options. Early market studies
and planning identified the need for smaller footprints for
both townhomes and single-family homes, keeping them
within reach of people buying their first homes.
The preliminary development plan and design guide-
lines for Midtown established a framework and vision for
the community. Working closely with Adams County staff,
the planning team revised zoning requirements and de-
veloped new standards and guidelines to create this new
neighborhood. Development standards purposefully en-
able new home ownership opportunities while respecting
adjacent 1950s development. Community-driven, right-
sized and custom-designed amenities are abundant at Mid-
town, including a working urban farm, a 43-acre regional
park, community gardens and an all-ages splash park.
Filling a Market Niche in the Mountains
Mountain living presents one of the most challenging
economic scenarios for attainable housing. Locals are of-
ten priced out of the market when looking for a home
to buy, with few options available in a reasonable price
range. Located on 416 acres near Silverthorne, Summit Sky
Ranch provides attainable housing for both local residents
and second home buyers with 70 homes earmarked for a
lower price point. Originally zoned for 83 large lot custom
homes, the planning team worked with local officials to
rezone the property to make environmentally respectful,
efficient-footprint homes a strong focus. As the team de-
veloped the vision and planning for the site, the local com-
munity and Front Range residents responded with over-
whelming support and the first phase of 46 homes sold out
quickly. With homes as small as 1,570 square feet featuring
streamlined modern design and low maintenance, locals
have a welcome new option in housing. Summit Sky Ranch
also makes efficient use of the larger community proper-
ty, providing 5 miles of outdoor trails, a community center
with pool and hot tub, and private lake access. The vision is
rapidly taking shape with planning that began in 2013 and
brisk construction activity currently underway.
Planning to Benefit All
Each of these opportunities fill a niche in the housing
spectrum. Planning began for all three as the real estate
market was seeing signs of improvement and they are
thriving with strong construction activity. When planning
every type of community, it’s crucial to understand market
differentiation and keep a laser focus on the ultimate goal:
creating a great lifestyle for each resident. From the first
planning and design stage, the final result should be clear
and remain in mind – the homes that become the founda-
tion of both family and community. Careful consideration
of every square inch matters in attainable housing, and
today’s planning makes all the difference for tomorrow’s
residents.
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ELEMENTS
Attainable Housing
Midtown is designed as a traditional neighborhood with 21st
century amenities, including this popular community cen-
ter and gardens.
