The Grand Cherokee is a mixed-use urban infill environment located in the Golden Triangle, one of Denver’s evolving in-town loft districts. Built on a formerly vacant lot, the Grand Cherokee contains 36 loft residences, three townhomes, an art gallery, and a graphic design business. Conceived to create an activated live/work presence in the neighborhood, the Grand Cherokee represents the best in both infill and scaled mixed-use development. Central to the owners’ interests on this project was the opportunity to create a diverse range of living spaces within the context of a cohesive design.
The 36 loft units were designed as a series of four double-height volumes growing upward from street level. Large industrial sash windows allow broad views of the downtown skyline and adjacent arts district. The three townhomes, complete with individual gardens, are tucked behind the structure’s other uses and offer a quiet retreat form adjacent street activity.
The two distinct unit types are linked by a central courtyard space that serves as an informal community gathering space and point of semi-public interaction.
The benefits of these design concepts are perhaps best evidenced by the fact that historically these units have commanded higher per square foot prices than similar neighborhood properties.