Asana Partners completes historic restoration on 17 buildings; Huckleberry Roasters, Black Lapel and John Atencio opening this year
Asana Partners has finished restoring 17 out of the planned 18 buildings at Denver’s renowned Larimer Square. The company eagerly anticipates the arrival of several new retailers this spring, such as Denver-based coffee shop Huckleberry Roasters and national men’s suit maker Black Lapel. Additionally, local fine jeweler John Atencio will be returning to the block, occupying a significantly larger space.
Purchased by Asana Partners in December 2020, the firm has invested $20 million to date on historic restoration work, including updates to aging infrastructure systems, to ensure sustained vitality of the historic block for decades to come. The exterior restoration work for 17 buildings fronting Larimer Street is complete, with the final building slated for completion in May. These renovations included the restoration of over 300 windows with extensive wood rot and decay, patching and repairs involving 21 tons of stone and masonry, comprehensive Dutchman repairs, and the rehabilitation of roof cornices and flashing throughout the block.
Asana Partners also has recently completed a full overhaul of approximately 50,000 square feet of interior space including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing upgrades. Renovations across an additional 45,000 square feet of interior space are expected to be complete by early 2025.
Much-anticipated will be the return of Denver fine jewelry designer John Atencio to a larger retail showroom at Larimer Square this spring. John Atencio is renowned for its bold statement pieces, wearable art and exquisite engagement rings – with each piece designed and crafted by hand from the finest materials, all with an exceptional attention to detail. At more than 1,500 square feet, the new Larimer Square showroom is double the size of the retailer’s previous space and will feature an extensive collection of diamond engagement rings and bridal jewelry to cater to the younger downtown demographic, according to Atencio.
“Larimer Square holds a unique magic that is truly unparalleled,” said John Atencio. “With our new, larger space, we can fully showcase our artistry and impeccable craftsmanship. It opens the door to a uniquely personal engagement ring experience, and provides the opportunity for us to really thrive.”
Founded in 2011, Huckleberry Roasters is committed to building a sustainable coffee business that actively supports smallholder farms and coffee co-ops, while also encouraging a healthy workplace and acting kindly and compassionately to strangers and co-workers alike. With four current Denver locations – including its first Sunnyside cafe and a popular Dairy Block outpost – Huckleberry Roasters will open on Larimer Square in spring 2024.
“When the opportunity arose to be part of Denver’s oldest block, how could we say no?” said Koan Goodman, founder and owner of Huckleberry Roasters. “We take a lot of pride in being a local company holding it down for Denver, and we’re excited to be a true local presence for the entire block and to offer something that bothDenverites and travelers can enjoy, find interesting and be excited by all year long.”
Recently opened, Black Lapel specializes in creating custom suits and hand-crafted shirts that are high quality yet affordable. Every custom Black Lapel suit and shirt is made-to-measure and meticulously tailored with just one customer in mind. The Larimer Square shop is Black Lapel’s first U.S. showroom after the original location in New York City.
“We are thrilled to bring the unique Black Lapel experience to Larimer Square, a location celebrated for its rich history and cultural significance in Denver,” said Black Lapel president Connor Lees. “Larimer Square has always been known for its amazing tenants and proximity to some of the most exciting cultural destinations in Denver. The neighborhood has a lot to offer, and we feel strongly that we can provide a unique product offering as well.”
Last year, Denver swimsuit retailer Beach Haus Swimwear opened on Larimer Square. Created by Priscilla B. Varner, the locally owned Beach Haus Swimwear carries a wide variety of luxury swimwear, resort wear and lifestyle accessories. Caribbean-inspired cocktail lounge Emerald Eye also opened on Larimer Square last summer.
Larimer Square recently executed long-term lease agreements with several existing tenants – including Comedy Works, Rioja, Coco + Grace (formerly known as Hailee Grace) and Dog Savvy.
For more information on all of the incredible shopping, dining & drinking options found at Larimer Square, please visit www.larimersquare.com.
Saved by award-winning preservationist Dana Crawford, Larimer Square became Denver’s first historic district in 1971. The district’s landmark ambiance and unique mix of critically acclaimed restaurants and boutique shops draw more than 4.5 million people each year. Alongside concepts like Garage Sale and Bao Brewhouse, the street also features one-of-a-kind award-winning chef-driven concepts like Rioja created by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Jennifer Jasinski and Osteria Marco by Chef Frank and Jacqueline Bonanno. Between the restaurants, Larimer Square is dotted with a variety of unique and noteworthy shops like Qinti, Cotopaxi, and Milly Rose. The Asana Partners team is working to keep Larimer Square the most vibrant and exciting block in Denver.
