Studio Gang has designed Populus, a new hotel intended to become an energetic new social centre in downtown Denver, United States.

Opening itself to the city and the Rocky Mountains beyond, Populus is a 13-storey hotel designed to become a new social centre in downtown Denver.

Located on a prominent corner site, the building greets the neighbourhood equally on all three sides, welcoming visitors and residents and connecting Denver's civic, arts and commercial districts.

The design of Populus draws from the distinct urban and natural character of Denver, at once a vibrant city and a gateway to awe-inspiring natural landscapes, where Populus' distinctive facade features sculptural windows that are informed by the characteristic patterns found on Aspen trees, an instantly recognisable symbol of Colorado.

The variety of window modules work together to create an iconic façade and offer glimpses of the nearby State Capitol, Civic Center Park and the mountains beyond.

This project has been longlisted in the hospitality project category of Dezeen Awards 2025.

Studio: Studio Gang
Project: Populus
Credits: Aparium Hotel Group, Wildman Chalmers Design, Fowler Architecture & Interior Design, Superbloom, Studio NYL, WSP, CMTA, Kimley-Horn, LS Group, Lerch Bates, Arup, Pique Technologies, Next Step Design, Advanced Consulting Engineers and Beck Group