Bluff Lake Nature Center (BLNC), Denver’s only nonprofit nature center and the city’s largest open space, celebrated the completion of its transformative campus improvements with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Bluff Lake staff, project partners, and local community supporters.
This ceremony celebrated the introduction of enhanced public spaces, a welcoming lobby, an all-electric administrative building, and a new ADA-accessible trail. As BLNC continues to grow, these advancements will support their mission to provide accessible outdoor education and opportunities for community engagement.
Designed by Shape Architecture and built by Howell Construction with owner’s representation provided by Cumming Group, the facility was developed to achieve net-zero energy performance and integrates sustainable technology that reflects BLNC’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community well-being.
Sustainability strategies include all-electric mechanical systems paired with a large photovoltaic array designed to achieve annual net-zero energy use, a low-carbon all-wood structure with exposed glulam and timber framing, durable natural wood siding, native and low-water plantings, and on-site stormwater management through rain gardens.
“We are excited to celebrate the completion of this project alongside Bluff Lake and the collective project team,” said Andrew Gilstrap, vice president at Howell Construction. “It’s rewarding to deliver a space that will have a lasting, positive impact on the community. We’re proud to support an organization that encourages connection, education, and inclusive opportunities to appreciate the outdoors.”
