A new apartment block in the US city of Denver was designed with a massive ‘crack’ to reflect its surrounding landscape.
One River North, with its modern glass facade, looks as if it has been split into three to reveal a natural terrain lying just beneath the surface.
In reality, the development is 187 rental units spread across 15 floors, with a man-made canyon-like trail running from level six to nine.
Residents and visitors can follow the trail, which is like ‘hiking in the mountains.’ says the building’s architects, MAD.
The route features a number of curated spaces that are inspired by Colorado’s foothill and canyon ecosystem.
Vegetation typically seen at a lower altitudes in the Rockies are planted on the lower levels of the building, while the greenery on the upper floors reflects what grows up higher.
On the roof terrace is an alpine-inspired space featuring a pool, spa, and garden.
The building also boasts a gym and shared indoor and outdoor spaces to’cultivate engagement and foster meaningful connections’, according to MAD.
On the ground floor are several retail units.
MAD principal architect Ma Yansong said: ‘Imagine living in a building yet feeling as though you’re immersed in a natural landscape—like living within a canyon itself.’
Not only might residents feel like they’re living in a natural environment, they’ll have fantastic views of the actual Rockies, which can be seen in the distance.
The development has earned Fitwel certification, which highlights the companies’ commitment to promoting the physical and mental well-being of its residents.
Ma Yansong hopes more buildings like One River North will occupy Denver and other cities.
He said: ‘Imagine our three-dimensional urban spaces, where high-rise office buildings and high-rise hotels introduce sky gardens, canyons, and waterfalls. In this vision, the future city is not just made of concrete boxes anymore; it becomes a place that integrates and connects people with nature.’
The architect may, therefore, be a fan of Singapore’s skyscraper hotel Pan Pacific Orchard hotel, which was recently named best new tall building in the world.
The striking high-rise has a waterfall, jungle and a sky-garden across four open-air terraces cut into the building, with all greenery reflecting the natural habitat of the island.
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