One River North Residences

Pushing the boundaries of urban design with a landmark residential tower inspired by the natural landscapes of the American West.

One River North Residences stands as one of the most architecturally distinctive developments in Denver’s River North (RiNo) Arts District, redefining the relationship between nature, architecture, and urban living. Located directly across from the 38th and Blake RTD Light Rail Station, the project brings together luxury residential living, ground-floor retail, and world-class design to create a landmark destination within one of Denver’s fastest-growing neighborhoods.

Designed by internationally acclaimed MAD Architects, based in Beijing, in collaboration with local architect-of-record Davis Partnership, the project introduces a bold architectural vision rarely seen in the region. The high-rise residential tower was conceived as a vertical extension of Colorado’s natural landscapes, translating the dramatic geology of the American West into a contemporary urban environment.

The building’s defining feature is a dramatic four-story carved-out section that runs through the structure, resembling a natural slot canyon. This sculptural architectural element incorporates more than 13,000 square feet of integrated landscaping, water features, and outdoor spaces, creating an immersive environment that blurs the boundary between built form and nature. The canyon-like experience provides residents with unique opportunities to engage with outdoor amenities while remaining at the center of a dense urban setting.

The development combines luxury rental residences with activated ground-floor retail, contributing to the vitality of the surrounding neighborhood and enhancing the pedestrian experience. Its location adjacent to a major transit station further strengthens connectivity and promotes walkability, supporting Denver’s vision for transit-oriented development.

Saunders’ construction operations team was heavily involved in the preconstruction and pre-planning efforts. As seen on many downtown Denver projects, the team had to perform de-watering operations while excavating the site for underground parking.

Delivering a project of this complexity required exceptional coordination among the design team, consultants, and construction partners to execute the intricate geometry, custom architectural elements, and integrated landscape features that define the building’s identity. The result is a structure that is as much a work of art as it is a residential community.

One River North has become an iconic addition to the Denver skyline, offering a distinctive living experience while establishing a new benchmark for innovative architecture, urban design, and luxury residential development in the city.

The 343,000-square-foot building also includes 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

This project received multiple industry awards, including:

• 2024 Silver ACE Award for Project Over $70 million from Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Colorado
• 2024 Award of Merit for Residential/Hospitality from Engineering News-Record (ENR) Mountain States