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Design Complexity Meets Concrete Ingenuity on Award-Winning Project
When it comes to concrete construction, pushing boundaries is in 91心頭利s DNA. The One River North project in Denver, Colorado, is a striking example of whats possible when bold architecture meets expert execution.
The 16-story mixed-use development isnt just another high rise. Its a one-of-a-kind structure with a canyon carved right through its fa巽ade. Inspired by the mountain ranges scattered on Denvers horizon, the canyon winds up and across the fa巽ade with curving walls, cascading waterfalls, and native plantings.
Its an eye-catching landmark that demanded creativity and precision from day one.
Craftsmanship That Matches the Vision
The general contractor, Saunders Construction led the challenging project. Bakers Denver team collaborated closely with the client and other trade partners to build safety and accountability into the project plan.
Executing the canyon structure required extensive planning, exceptional craftsmanship, and rigorous construction project management. The team constructed flowing, curved decks that span multiple elevations and orientations, integrating them seamlessly with vertical elements.
At the canyons widest point an overhanging feature at level 8 the team employed cantilevered beam shoring to support large concrete pours without traditional vertical re-shoring. This temporary structural system transferred loads back into the building, ensuring the concrete could cure safely while maintaining the architectural design intent.
Given the length and complexity of the spans, the team designed in camber to account for natural deflection. This upward curve in the formwork allowed the decks to settle into a level plane as the concrete cured and gravity took effect. This process was critical to achieving the architects vision.
To meet tight sequencing demands, the Baker team incorporated high-performance concrete mixes. This enabled rapid curing of elevated decks and same-day placement of vertical elements, including core walls and columns. Combined with optimized post-tensioning and re-shoring strategies, this approach allowed the team to maintain momentum and ultimately top out ahead of schedule.
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Technology as a Core Enabler
One River Norths unique geometry called for more than conventional means and methods. The team leveraged building information modeling (BIM) and 3D printing from early planning through execution, enhancing coordination across disciplines and improving constructability analysis.
The use of a 3D-printed model gave the field and engineering teams a shared visual reference, helping them anticipate sequencing challenges, streamline reshoring strategies, and optimize formwork cycles. It bridged the gap between digital planning and hands-on field execution, resulting in higher efficiency and greater precision.
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An Award-Winning Concrete Construction Project
Construction began in September 2021, and the project topped out in December 2022. By the time construction wrapped in spring 2024, the team had placed over 18,398 cubic yards of concrete. The project team maintained a 0 lost-time accident rate.
In recognition of the innovative approach and execution excellence, the Baker team has earned multiple awards for the project:
- An Excellence in Concrete Award in the Residential category from the American Concrete Institutes Rocky Mountain Chapter
- An ACE of Colorado Award for Meeting the Challenge of a Difficult Job Specialty Contractor
- An ENR Mountain States Residential/Hospitality Award of Merit
The project is a showcase of collaboration, technical ingenuity, and the unmatched skill of Bakers craftworkers. Their ability to solve complex problems in the field and bring ambitious designs to life is what continues to set Baker apart.