Populus Denver: An Eco-Conscious Hotel Fusing Comfort with Modern Aesthetics
Breathtaking aesthetics and eco-friendly living can indeed coexist. The luxury establishment Populus Denver perfectly balances exceptional architectural design with environmental awareness.
As a remarkable enhancement to the Denver skyline, the facade honors nature with its white, rounded shapes and eye-like window cutouts. This design is intended to resonate with the appearance of an aspen tree’s bark, featuring “eyes” that accentuate its pale color. The ambiance feels both futuristic and familiar.
Eugene Kim, co-founder and editor-in-chief of My Modern Met, experienced a stay at the hotel during his visit to the city. “It was an instant attraction when I first laid eyes on Populus Denver, crafted by the internationally acclaimed architecture firm Studio Gang,” he reveals. “I later discovered that its shape was inspired by the Colorado aspen tree—a revelation that made me even more enamored with the project. Learning that it is the first carbon-positive hotel in the United States clinched it for me: this is a structure that embodies both beauty and intention.”
Populus Denver was constructed by Urban Villages, the same team responsible for Populus Seattle. “They are setting a new standard for how contemporary hotels can merge design and sustainability,” Kim asserts. “Each element has been meticulously thought out, from the concrete selection to the incorporation of wind energy—even though it may come with a higher price tag. However, those decisions result in abundant natural lighting, energy efficiency, and an overarching sense of accountability that infuses the environment.”
The hotel’s interior, crafted by Wildman Chalmers Design alongside FOWLER Architecture and Design, includes 265 guest rooms that continue to honor nature and pay tribute to the encompassing Mountain West area. “The interior design was just as striking,” Kim notes. “Teardrop-shaped windows adorn both the bedrooms and even the bathtub, while wooden floors and walls create a warm blend of textures and tones.” In contrast to many hotels where artwork is secondary, Populus Denver utilizes it as a means to further honor the design’s inspiration.
The materials selected for the interior were aimed at reducing the building’s overall carbon footprint. This entailed a conscious effort to source and utilize reclaimed materials whenever feasible. The wood slats adorning the lobby ceiling, for example, were previously wood snow fencing in Wyoming, and numerous guest room headboards were crafted from fallen beetle-kill pine.
Populus Denver features two dining options, Stellar Jay and Pasque, along with a coffee venue called Little Owl. Stellar Jay is a rooftop bar boasting an outdoor terrace with a live fire menu, while Pasque serves all-day meals with a focus on seasonal cuisine. Little Owl Coffee, positioned in the lobby, includes a walk-up window, making it convenient to grab coffee or a snack throughout the day. “I adored the gourmet coffee, and dining at Stellar Jay was a highlight, blending delicious dishes with breathtaking views,” Kim remarks.
For travelers who appreciate great design and cuisine while also caring for the planet, Populus Denver is unbeatable. Moreover, your stay at the hotel contributes directly to a healthier ecosystem. “Urban Villages has a ‘One Night, One Tree’ initiative,” Kim clarifies, “where a tree is planted for every night of your stay—and Populus Denver transcends the concept of a hotel. It stands as a blueprint for how intentional design can foster a sustainable future.”