Denver, Colorado, is a city renowned for its blend of historic charm and modern vibrancy. At the heart of this dichotomy are the city’s historic buildings—architectural gems that stand as testaments to Denver’s rich past. However, owning these properties can be as challenging as it is rewarding. For many property owners, the beauty and cultural significance of their buildings often come with a unique set of headaches: from rigorous preservation laws to the mounting costs of maintenance and restoration.
This article delves into the complexities faced by owners of historic buildings in Denver, exploring the tension between preserving the city’s legacy and navigating the practical realities of owning aging structures.
Denver’s Historic Architectural Legacy
Denver’s skyline is dotted with buildings that tell stories of the city’s transformation—from its Gold Rush beginnings to its role as a major hub in the Mountain West. Historic neighborhoods like Capitol Hill, Five Points, and LoDo (Lower Downtown) are home to iconic structures that have withstood the test of time.
Key historic buildings include:
- Union Station: A Beaux-Arts masterpiece and a cornerstone of Denver’s transportation history.
- The Brown Palace Hotel: Opened in 1892, this triangular building boasts elegant interiors and a storied past.
- The Daniels & Fisher Tower: Once the tallest building west of the Mississippi, it remains a defining feature of Denver’s skyline.
While these buildings are cherished by the community, they represent significant responsibilities for their owners.
The Challenges of Owning Historic Properties
Owning a historic building in Denver is a double-edged sword. On one hand, these properties are cultural treasures that attract tourists, add prestige, and preserve the city’s heritage. On the other hand, they require constant upkeep, adherence to strict regulations, and often significant financial investment.
1. Preservation Laws and Bureaucratic Hurdles
Denver has a robust preservation framework designed to protect its historic landmarks. The city’s Landmark Preservation Commission oversees regulations that ensure historic buildings maintain their original character. While these laws safeguard Denver’s heritage, they can be a source of frustration for property owners:
- Restricted Modifications: Owners are often required to preserve original architectural details, which can limit renovations or expansions.
- Approval Processes: Any changes, no matter how minor, typically require approval from the preservation board, leading to delays and added costs.
- Material Requirements: Restoration efforts must use period-appropriate materials, which are often expensive and harder to source.
For owners trying to modernize their properties for residential or commercial use, these rules can feel restrictive.
2. The High Cost of Maintenance and Restoration
Historic buildings are often over a century old, and their maintenance demands are substantial:
- Aging Infrastructure: Plumbing, electrical systems, and HVAC systems in these buildings are often outdated and require costly upgrades.
- Deterioration: Decay from years of exposure to Denver’s harsh winters and fluctuating weather conditions leads to issues like roof leaks, crumbling facades, and weakened foundations.
- Skilled Labor: Restoring intricate architectural details requires craftsmen with specialized skills, which adds to the expense.
For instance, repairing the terra cotta exterior of a historic building might cost exponentially more than replacing modern siding. These costs can quickly become overwhelming for owners without substantial financial resources.
3. Zoning and Accessibility Issues
Many historic buildings were constructed long before modern zoning laws and accessibility standards were established. Owners must navigate challenges such as:
- Code Compliance: Updating properties to meet fire safety, ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act), and building codes can be both expensive and architecturally disruptive.
- Zoning Restrictions: Certain historic areas have strict zoning laws that limit what businesses or renovations are allowed.
Owners hoping to convert a historic property into a modern commercial space, for example, may face zoning restrictions that prohibit certain types of enterprises or alterations.
4. Balancing Preservation with Profitability
For commercial property owners, maintaining the historic integrity of a building while turning a profit is no small feat. Many historic buildings are located in high-demand areas like LoDo, where the cost of owning and operating a property can outpace revenue.
- Limited Rental Potential: Tenants often expect modern amenities that are difficult to incorporate without violating preservation rules.
- Tourism vs. Local Use: While historic buildings draw tourists, they may not align with the needs of local residents or businesses.
The result is a delicate balancing act: preserving the building’s legacy while ensuring it remains financially viable.
Stories from Denver Property Owners
Several Denver property owners have shared their experiences of navigating the challenges of historic building ownership:
The Struggle of Preservation vs. Modernization
One owner of a historic mansion in Capitol Hill recounted their difficulties installing modern plumbing and electrical systems without compromising the building’s original interior design. The project took months longer than anticipated due to preservation board approvals, resulting in significant financial strain.
A Commercial Challenge in LoDo
A business owner who purchased a historic warehouse in LoDo aimed to convert it into a boutique hotel. Despite its prime location, the cost of restoring the building’s brickwork, updating its infrastructure, and meeting zoning regulations nearly doubled their budget.
Finding Unexpected Opportunities
Not all stories are negative. Some owners have found creative ways to turn their historic properties into profitable ventures. A couple who owns a historic Victorian home in Five Points transformed it into a successful bed-and-breakfast by embracing its antique charm and marketing it to history enthusiasts.
Support for Historic Property Owners
Recognizing the challenges of historic property ownership, Denver offers several resources to help ease the burden:
- Grants and Tax Credits: Programs like the Colorado State Historical Fund provide financial assistance for preservation projects. Property owners can also apply for federal tax credits to offset restoration costs.
- Consultation Services: The Landmark Preservation Commission offers guidance to help owners navigate regulations and identify cost-effective restoration strategies.
- Community Support: Local historic societies and preservation groups often collaborate with property owners to fundraise and advocate for the preservation of key buildings.
While these resources are invaluable, many owners argue that more needs to be done to address the high costs and bureaucratic hurdles they face.
The Importance of Preservation
Despite the challenges, preserving Denver’s historic buildings is crucial for maintaining the city’s identity. These structures serve as tangible links to the past, educating future generations and enriching the city’s cultural landscape.
- Economic Benefits: Restored historic buildings attract tourists, boost property values, and stimulate economic activity in their neighborhoods.
- Environmental Sustainability: Preservation is often more environmentally friendly than demolition and new construction, as it reduces waste and conserves resources.
By finding a balance between preservation and modernization, Denver can ensure its historic buildings continue to inspire and contribute to the city’s growth.
Conclusion
Owning a historic building in Denver is both a privilege and a challenge. While these properties carry immense cultural and aesthetic value, they also come with significant responsibilities and financial burdens. For owners, the journey of preserving a piece of Denver’s history often involves navigating complex regulations, costly restoration efforts, and the tension between honoring the past and adapting to the present.
As Denver continues to grow and evolve, it is essential to support the individuals and organizations working to maintain the city’s architectural heritage. By fostering collaboration between property owners, preservation boards, and the community, Denver can preserve its historic charm while embracing the future.