Brinkman Construction, in partnership with Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver and architecture firm Gresham Smith, marked the completion of the Aurora Ronald McDonald House renovation on February 16 with a ribbon-cutting event celebrating the newly transformed space.
The event brought together project partners, staff, supporters, and community members to celebrate the completed renovations. The celebration included brief remarks and a ribbon-cutting ceremony, followed by a community open house that allowed guests to tour the facility and experience the welcoming environment.
“Opening the expanded Aurora Ronald McDonald House is a milestone made possible by an extraordinary community that believes every family deserves to stay close to the care their child needs. Our Houses have always been more than buildings—they are sanctuaries of comfort, connection, and hope. Thanks to our supporters, volunteers, and healthcare partners, we can now welcome even more families, offering them rest, strength, and the reassurance that they are never alone on their journey,” said Laura Cordes, CEO, Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver.
The renovation transformed 10,000 square feet on the first floor of the 45-bedroom facility. Updates include six new private bedrooms with bathrooms, relocated play areas, and modernized office and meeting spaces for staff. The improvements allow the Aurora House to better support both families and employees while continuing to provide a sense of comfort and stability.
Brinkman Construction served as the general contractor and worked closely with the Ronald McDonald House-Denver team to complete the renovation within an active facility where families and children were present daily. Safety, communication, and minimal disruption were top priorities throughout the project.
“The Ronald McDonald House Charities-Denver team hosted a great event and having the opportunity to meet many of the donors was an honor. Completing this renovation in an active facility was especially meaningful for our team, and we are privileged to support their incredible mission,” said Brinkman Construction Vice President Eric Kesti.
Designed by Gresham Smith, the renovation thoughtfully balances improved functionality with a welcoming, supportive atmosphere that reflects the mission of Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver.
“At Gresham Smith, we believe that good design makes a difference. The spaces we create can ease stress, bring people together, and foster the important work that happens every day,” said Kevin Pasewalk, AIA, EDAC, LEED AP, senior architect at Gresham Smith. “This project reflects that belief, and our team created a place that continues to offer support, dignity, and community to families when they need it most. I’m proud of what we created together, and even more proud of what it represents—a place of hope, comfort, and compassion.”
The ribbon-cutting celebration highlighted the strong collaboration between Ronald McDonald House Charities of Denver, Brinkman Construction, and Gresham Smith, while reinforcing a shared commitment to creating spaces that make a meaningful difference for families in need.
