ArcWest continues to find efficient uses for pre-engineered metal buildings.  In this case the project consisted of a Chief Buildings four bay vehicle storage facility with offices for the Colorado Department of Transportation.

ArcWest was awarded this project due to our experience with metal buildings and their use on challenging sites.  ArcWest completed a project in 2008 for the Klamath Falls Herald & News which utilized a Metallic Building, Inc. on a hillside with no level areas.  To accommodate the 48,000 SF single level facility and all the trucking and vehicular needs around it the site was terraced and an attractive yet massive retaining wall was placed behind the building.  The back wall of the building also functioned as a retaining wall to reduce overall cost.

This vehicle storage facility located along Colorado HWY 74 in Kittredge Colorado is tucked into the hillside to maximize the narrow flat site and accommodate the on-going needs of a Colorado Department of Transportation road maintenance site.

The project team has been fortunate that snow fall has remained light and we have had plenty of warm autumn days to complete the concrete footings and foundation work. We plan to complete all concrete flat work and install the Redi-Rock site retaining wall behind the building before the Christmas/New Years Holiday.

See the construction photo’s of work completed and follow the projects completion in subsequent blog postings or contact ArcWest Architects for additional information.

ArcWest is excited to share the work in progress for a new residential project in the northwest Denver Sunnyside neighborhood.  The proposed design is a contemporary home which nicely integrates with the site located at  Pecos Street and 37th  Avenue.

View from the Hot Tub / Roof Deck over Garage

Key features:

• 2,564 SF on 2 floors with a basement
• 3rd floor deck
• Flexible indoor living spaces
• Use of natural light
• Shaded outdoor living spaces
• Integrated Deck connects to roof top space
• Hot tub on roof deck over garage

For more information about ArcWest or to inquire about a new design for your residential project,  please contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

Congratulations to Liza Aslor, Bridge Morgan and “family” on the opening of the new Wellness Center located in NW Denver in the Highlands neighborhood on 4928 West 29th Avenue.

ArcWest Architects assisted Liza and Bridge with the required documentation to submit and obtain a “Change of Use” permit.  Our role included a facility evaluation and code analysis with a focus for compliance with current ADA requirements per local Denver Building Code and ICC/ANSI A117.1-2003 standards.   As part of the process, ArcWest completed as-built drawings of the building and coordinated a structural evaluation.  Finally ArcWest designed and detailed the minor improvements necessary to meet the Denver Building Department code requirements for successful change of use approval.

More about the business:  pH7 Collective is a cooperative of Bridge Morgan, Liza Aslor, Cher Aslor, Joanne Douglass and Lisa Eaton. The group will offer a variety of services including:

• Thai & Swedish massage
• Rolfing
• Pilates
• Acupuncture
• Cranial Sacral
• Visceral manipulation
• Private yoga sessions

Should you  be considering a start for a new business with the adaptation or reuse of an older building, contact ArcWest Architects professionals for a free consultation.  We can assist with a preliminary building evaluation, project feasibility, an understanding of city requirements, conceptual planning and building permit submission requirements.

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

Testimonial letter below:

“ArcWest did an amazing job helping us with the documents we needed to get our 1C permit. Robin was extremely patient and accommodating with us when we had questions or when things had to be done quickly. We felt like ArcWest had our back as we navigated the confusing path of changing a residential space to a commercial space and obtaining our certificate of occupancy.

Thanks Robin and staff for making it happen- we couldn’t have done it without you!”

Liza Aslor & Bridge Morgan

Liza Aslor
Highlands office:

4928 W. 29th Ave, Denver, CO 80212

phone. 720.810.0182

ArcWest Architects wanted to take a minute to share a few notable items:

• ArcWest is excited and pleased to announce that Robin Adams has earned the credential, LEED Green Associate, and is recognized as a LEED professional with the Green Building Certification Institute.  The partners are committed to continuing education as well as a sustainable approach to building design and construction. This is the first step to expanding our expertise in green building practices and furthering sustainability.  This is paramount to (all of) our futures.

• In partnership with Carl Shipley, Shipley Design, ArcWest Architects has submitted the entry fee and application to the AIA Denver for the Blue Spruce home / design-build competition for Habitat for Humanity of Colorado.

• ArcWest is actively working on  a couple of very exciting projects.  At a macro level, one project is a comprehensive multi-acre site and facility master plan addressing immediate building needs while planning for future expansion. In comparison, the other project is on a smaller scale comprised of a 3,200 to 3,600 sf office remodel for a manufacturing facility in metro Denver.  We look forward to sharing more information as each of the projects mature.

The partners at ArcWest wishes  everyone a safe and fun 4th of July!

Interesting article this week in the Denver Business Journal about an internet start-up company ZamRay, LLC.  This business is going to fill a niche service in re-purposing leftover building materials found at the end of construction projects.

The benefit is twofold:  First, those materials won’t end up in the landfill – This promotes sustainable concepts and methods.  Reduce, reuse and recycle.   Second, it opens up a source for materials at a lower cost for smaller projects.  Smaller projects typically start off at a disadvantage financially.  ZamRay will provide an avenue for owners and contractors to procure building materials at a lower cost allowing smaller construction projects the ability to meet their budget.

To read more, see the article:  “Leftover construction items find a home at Zam Ray.com” by Cathy Proctor.

ArcWest Architects has worked with various clients and project types to support the process of submitting an application for the change of use, or change of occupancy with municipal building departments. This need most often arises when an individual or company purchases or leases a building that is recorded and approved for one use with the intent to utilize the building or space for a different use.  For example, an owner may purchase a building that is classified as a retail shoe store and wants to convert it to a restaurant.  The proposed change of use requires the review and approval of the local municipalities building and zoning department.

The primary reason for this requirement is simple: safety and welfare of the occupants and nearby neighbors. The regulatory agency needs to insure that the proposed use is compatible with the existing building type and construction, as well as appropriate for the assigned zoning.  For example, a multi unit residential use may not be appropriate for a building that was used as a business office space. With any “change of use” compatibility is the question. The building department needs to verify that the requirements for the proposed use are suitable to the existing building architecture and allowed within the zoned district.

As a professional service, ArcWest will work with the owner first to obtain or create an as-built drawing of the building’s slated or envisioned new use.  Next with an understanding of the building’s current use and proposed use, ArcWest can complete a Building Code Analysis to understand what the requirements are.  Basic items reviewed under this Code Analysis will include:

• Construction Type
• Occupancy Classification
• Height of Building and Number of Stories
• Gross Area in Square Feet
• Occupant Load
• Exiting / Egress Systems
• Sprinkler Systems / Fire Alarm & Detection

Depending upon the comparative review of the current use and the proposed use during the code analysis, improvements or modifications to the building may be required in order for the project to be in conformance with current building code regulations.  A few common building elements that can potentially be affected by a change of use are egress requirements, mechanical ventilation, fire resistance of walls, number of plumbing fixtures required, etc..

A few scenarios to consider:

• If the project is a simple adaptive reuse, meaning the new owner intends to occupy the space with minor, if any changes for the new use then the number of drawings required for the “Change of Use“ application are minimal.  This is the simplest process.

• More often, the building owner wants to complete renovations that will enhance the proposed business activity.  In this situation a complete set of drawings (architectural, structural, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and potentially fire protection) is required for both the change of use application and a building construction permit.

• An owner may be just in the process of considering the feasibility of a proposed use for a prospective property (i.e. new coffee shop in an old retail store) ArcWest can assist with the initial diligence prior to completing the purchase to understand what physical improvements may be required for the proposed occupancy to be compliant with current building code and zoning regulations.

Regardless of the scenario an owner may be considering, ArcWest Architects can support the process. Whether submitting an application for a “change of use” for a simple adaptive reuse, or diligence and feasibility for a proposed business and building, or for a more in depth renovation project requiring a change of occupancy, ArcWest can provide the professional assistance and services required.

- Robin Adams

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

It may seem like a bit of a contradiction … However, in recent years with the economic pressures on the design and building industry, ArcWest Architects has focused on diversifying our practice and scope of technical services.  ArcWest’s background core experience is for the planning and design of light industrial (publishing/printing) and office facilities.  The reality is that particular industry aligns with a narrow percentage of the new and renovation building projects currently in the market.  Fortunately, ArcWest has been able to leverage our background and core experience for the following project award.

Vehicle Storage Facility ArcWest is working with CDOT (the Colorado Department of Transportation) to implement a new building prototype for a Vehicle Storage and Maintenance Facility to be constructed in the small town of Kittridge in the foothills west of Denver.  The building incorporates features that will make it a cost effective project from initial costs through the long term (life cycle) operating costs that will result in a more durable structure with a long efficient and high performing service life.  A few key features include:

• Provide continuous clerestory windows along front and back of building for natural daylighting.

• Provide full vision panels in top of overhead doors for daylighting

• Energy Efficient lighting using florescent fixtures

This project at a base level taps into ArcWest’s competency and core experience in working with pre-engineered building structures.  This is certainly one of the most utilitarian applications of a pre-engineered metal building compared to some of our other past projects.  Nonetheless, our experience is instrumental in the project development, engineering coordination and final implementation during construction.

What we want to convey and reiterate in this article is how this project, as one example, illustrates the ArcWest Architects group’s background and architectural experience is well suited and applicable for a wide range of building designs and architectural project types.

- Robin Adams

The office has endeavored to reach fresh clients of different project types from the early days the company was founded.  It has been challenging to reach these prospective clients and be commissioned for a new variety of building or renovation projects.  It appears finally (fingers crossed) that our efforts are being rewarded. ArcWest is very excited to share the news about the following work currently on the “boards” in the office.

Bella Bridal Boutique: ArcWest, lead by Kevin Anderson, will provide complete scope of services, design through construction administration, for the Boutique project. The property consists of two buildings, landscaping and parking along the south side of East Montview Ave. between Galena & Fulton Streets.  ArcWest has prepared a conceptual design for the west building for a complete exterior façade renovation. The east building, a reception hall, is not included. A main feature of the site improvements for a portion of the property will be a decorative wrought iron fence with brick pilasters.

A Day Spa: ArcWest Architects is working with a client to complete the initial due diligence and feasibility for the application of a 4,000 SF design program for a spa located within a prospective building in the Highlands neighborhood.

Day Spa Concept | Design by ArcWest

Conceptual plans have been developed illustrating how the space requirements “fits” and works within the existing building, examining the benefits and potential shortcomings for each idea.  The proposed spa facility will offer two whirlpool tubs, steam room, dry sauna, a common Jacuzzi, massage rooms, juice bar, and retail area promoting body and skin care products.

Along with the preparation of the conceptual plans, constructability and building cost are being reviewed with a contractor who is providing pre-construction services. The goal is to establish one preferred approach to be used as a guide in cost estimating, finishes, equipment and property location.  ArcWest Architects and Atelier Interior Design are partnering to provide complete design services for the project.

Proposed Interior Renovation | Design by ArcWest & Atelier

Private Residences: In partnership with Atelier Interior Design, ArcWest is assisting various local residential property owner to complete interior design and space renovations.  The members of Atelier ID and ArcWest will meet to have a brainstorming session often generating 4 or 5 different design options.

ArcWest prepared the initial conceptual presentations.  Atelier will then review the interior finishes and material selection. As the final step, ArcWest prepares the documents required for construction, and permit if necessary.

- Robin Adams

For more information on how ArcWest can assist you, contact us directly at 303.455.7741 or through our website.

The ArcWest partners, Todd Heirls and Robin Adams, volunteered recently for a “Habit for Humanity” residential building project locally in Denver.  The project superintendent (Trevor) started the morning introduction with the “safety speech” … Typical stuff such as wear your protective gear, hard hat, safety glasses, etc..  Don’t stand on the top of ladders and take care when using sharp knives to always cut away from your tender body parts.

I know we were all eager and anxious to know what we were going to be doing for the day.  As Trevor wrapped up his 10 plus point safety speech, we finally arrived at the moment we were all waiting for …  The suspense was a killer.  “Today we are going to be installing the insulation” Trevor shared with a bit of a grin.  Ugh … Not the itchiest job of all jobs – Yes, we would be installing the fiberglass batt insulation.  The building inspector was scheduled to show up on site at 2:00 PM for a complete inspection.  There was a lot of work to be done, but with the many volunteers on hand, the task would be completed in short order.

Once we completed the insulation, the next goal was to start hanging the drywall on the ceiling.  Was that right?  We were going to be hanging the ceiling drywall – Also a notoriously arduous task.  We had our work cut out for us. By the end of the day we were certainly going to be itchy and sore between those two tasks.  It took all morning to carefully install the insulation making sure the insulation reached all corners of the framed cavities, and was not packed tight … Insulation works best fluffy with air in the fibers.

After lunch the volunteers worked on the last  portions of the insulation, along with installing the baffles for the attic below the roof in anticipation of the “blown-in” loose fill insulation scheduled for a later day.  The house was going to be well insulated.  I had the opportunity to use the expanding foam insulation to insure all the gaps and cracks around the windows and door frames were completely filled and air tight.  The building inspector showed up at 2:00  as scheduled and gave a thumbs up. We had the official approval to start hanging the drywall.

For the remainder of the afternoon the volunteers divided into three teams and started working on installing the ceiling drywall.  The key with drywall is to take a good measurement, then allow for an 1/8 inch on all sides for wiggle room for the installation.  Drywall is brittle and will snap if you attempt to flex it into position.  Moving the 8 foot x 12 foot sheets into place is something you only want to have to do once.  Strong motivation to make sure you measure twice and cut accurately for a good fit.

All joking aside for a moment, it was incredibly satisfying to see how much our volunteer crew accomplished in the period of a day – Very rewarding!  ArcWest is looking forward to our next “Habit for Humanity” volunteer day.

There is quite the local storm brewing about the proposed development for the vacant site northeast of 44^th Avenue and Harlan Street, location of the demolished Lakeside Mall.  Let’s make it clear that ArcWest is always interested in new development and the proposed building projects that go along with it. New development is a primary “fuel” for the architectural services engine.  We believe the point to be raised in looking at the proposed (and debated) Lakeside redevelopment plan is that there is a tremendous opportunity to create a development for this site that could be an incredible addition to the area and surrounding neighborhoods.

When you consider all the positive attributes of the site: the location adjacent to Lake Rhoda, the size of the parcel, the visibility from the interstate, the unique character of the folks living in the community of Wheatridge, the local Berkely and Highlands neighborhoods … The proposed development illustrated sorely misses the mark in reaching it’s potential.

Proposed Lakeside Redevelopment Plan for 44th Street and Harlan Ave.

The open sea of parking with minimal landscaping ringed by single points of box retail stores is classic suburban planning of 20 years ago.  The development completely turns it’s back on the biggest amenity of the site: Lake Rhoda.  There is no attempt to create pedestrian avenues that weave through the buildings and site to integrate the commercial buildings with mixed uses,  landscaped green space with parking and take advantage of the lake as a primary feature.

ArcWest visualizes a more exciting opportunity looking at the dynamic nature of the Tennyson Street district (between 38^th and 44^th Avenues) for example.  Architects, planners and developers should take inspiration from the mixed use, pedestrian friendly 2 and 3 story buildings, moderate density fabric of this street.  We believe an urban plan of buildings of similar diversity and scale integrated with open space parks that link to Lake Rhoda could be a concept which would offer so much more potential to the immediate and adjacent communities.

The debate about the redevelopment appears to center on the rejection of  a mainstream “big box” brand as the primary culprit.  Leaving the “Mega Store” debate to the side, the real issue is the integration of an oversized retail building (whatever variety) in a concept of suburban sprawl and a dated model of development.   In contrast, by taking the approach of an urban environment integrating public plazas, art and sculpture, patios for eating, with moderate scaled buildings supporting mixed use of retail and living, a sustainable environment is achieved that inspires surrounding areas to achieve the same or beyond.

The Belmar development of the former Villa Italia Mall is an excellent example and model for what the Lakeside Redevelopment could be striving for.   A destination urban district which integrates mixed use of retail, residential, commercial with open public amenities.

This debate should be more about creating a change for the better: an enhanced concept for livable communities, sustainable growth promoting a healthy human environment that might even last for generations.  The proposed redevelopment plan will be obsolete before it’s completed.

- Robin Adams