Arkins Park (RiNo ArtPark)

Adaptive reuse approaches at new urban park reflect eclectic Denver neighborhood

The City and County of Denver Parks and Recreation and the North Denver Cornerstone Collaborative (NDCC) determined that a new park was needed in the emerging River North (RiNo) neighborhood.  The City envisioned the park to be a direct reflection of the up-and-coming trendy arts district – an intimate, creative, and iconic park that would highlight the sustainability, arts, and culture of the surrounding neighborhoods, as well as enhance the ecology of the river corridor in new and creative ways.

Wenk Associates led a multi-disciplinary team in preparing a master plan and construction documentation for the 3.5-acre park, located along the South Platte River, and in providing conceptual design for the adjacent riverfront promenade that will eventually connect to downtown Denver.  The public outreach process included a unique, grassroots approach to engaging the public and stakeholders, as well as public meetings to present ideas and solicit community feedback.  The park plan includes an adaptive reuse approach to repurpose existing buildings as plaza and makerspaces.  The park will also provide lounge areas with moveable seating, performance areas, flexible event space, creative play areas, public art, urban agriculture, stormwater gardens, and access to the South Platte River.

See 2023 ULI Colorado Impace Awards Inspire Category Winner video.