One River North skyscraper,
design: MAD Architects
A new glass skyscraper by MAD Architects has emerged near the center of the River North (RiNo) arts district in Denver, Colorado. Halfway up, the 16-story façade appears to "crack," revealing a space reminiscent of rocks from the Grand Canyon of Colorado.
One River North skyscraper - the "crack" in the glass facade is reminiscent of the Colorado Canyons
© Ivan Baan
Imagine urban spaces where high-rise office buildings and hotels introduce gardens under the sky, canyons and waterfalls. In this vision, the city of the future ceases to be a collection of concrete boxes and becomes a place that connects people to nature
- Says Ma Yansong, MAD's chief architect.
The One River North skyscraper - a close-up view of the facade.
© Parrish Ruiz De Velasco
architecture that blurs the boundaries
between the city and nature
The project is a response to the nature of Denver - a city surrounded by rugged mountains and deep canyons. The architects decided to blur the boundaries between urban surroundings and nature. The result is a skyscraper with rounded glass facades that shield the individual floors. The first floor houses retail space, while 187 rental apartments are distributed above.
One River North skyscraper - drawing of the west elevation.
© MAD Architects
canyon erosion inspiration
An erosion-inspired zone appears on the 6th floor, extending all the way to the roof terrace. It resembles a narrow canyon, with rounded, organic forms that contrast with the geometric massing. The "canyon" features flower beds full of vegetation, a small waterfall, and the terrace houses a pool, spa and garden. Walking through this space resembles a mountain hike.
One River North skyscraper - in the "canyon" there are flower beds full of vegetation and a small waterfall
© Ivan Baan
Colorado's natural diversity
MAD Architects drew inspiration from Colorado's nature, referencing the state's diverse biomes. Vegetation on the lower floors is reminiscent of subalpine forests, semi-desert shrubs and water motifs appear higher up, and the highest levels show forms inspired by mountain crevices. On the roof terrace, a space modeled after an alpine plateau has been created.
One River North skyscraper - planting scheme
© MAD Architects
space adapted to the development of greenery
The project was planned with long-lived plant species that will thrive in an urban environment. In addition, relaxation areas, common spaces and a fitness area have been provided. Interestingly, even passersby can experience the o atmosphere, thanks to the sounds of rushing water that can be heard from the street.
One River North skyscraper - seventh floor plan
© MAD Architects
Fitwel certified
- health and well-being
One River North has earned Fitwel certification, which promotes the physical and mental health of residents. The certification, awarded to fewer than 1,000 buildings worldwide, recognizes the project's innovative approach to mixed-use development.
One River North - the skyscraper overlooks the River North (RiNo) arts district.
© Parrish Ruiz De Velasco
River North neighborhood transformation
The studio focuses on designing futuristic and organic buildings that strike a balance between humans, the city and the surrounding environment. The skyscraper has added to the transformation of the River North neighborhood, which in recent years has been transforming from an industrial area into a vibrant center of art, creativity and social activity.
Compiled by Anastazja Dżupina
Illustrations provided courtesy of MAD Architects.
