AC Development, a privately-owned real estate company launched in 2020 by the Coors Family, has announced the launch of Clayworks, the new brand for the planned mixed-use district in downtown Golden previously known as the CoorsTek 9th Street Redevelopment. Clayworks will be an extension of downtown Golden, welcoming the community back to this historic site for the first time in well over a century. The Golden City Council unanimously approved the Clayworks vision and plan last year.
Designed by Tryba Architects, the deeply sustainable new district will be located on over 12 acres of land owned by the Coors family. The site has been home to CoorsTek’s technical ceramics manufacturing and research facilities since 1910, but AC Development will soon transform this area into a dynamic five-block district with cutting-edge office spaces, a boutique hotel, distinctive apartments, and outstanding food and beverage — all rooted in the beautiful context and lifestyle of Golden.
“We are excited to re-envision and transform this significant property while ensuring it remains reflective of the Golden community and the Coors Family legacy,” said Dan Cohen, AC Development president. “At a time when people are seeking connection and collaboration, Clayworks offers an exceptional place in a one-of-a-kind location, featuring unmatched amenities, striking architecture, beautiful outdoor spaces, cutting-edge sustainability, and a unique collection of companies and people.”
Clayworks is a name inspired by the rich history of ceramics innovation and production on the site, which was purchased by the Coors Family in 1886 for use initially as a glass works to support their nearby growing brewery. In 1910, the property became home to a new porcelain company (later to become CoorsTek), which was located here because of the area’s naturally occurring high-quality clay deposits that produced first-rate ceramics.
“The name is deeply connected to our guiding principles of innovation and discovery, history and legacy, craft and quality,” continued Cohen. “And it represents the entrepreneurship, technological advancements, and global impact that have occurred and will continue to originate on this site. At once illuminating the past while also shining a light on a very bright future.”
“Clayworks will give way to the next generation of innovation and creativity as the location of CoorsTek’s new global headquarters and as a space for leading-edge companies and other groups who share our commitment to craft, sustainability, and community,” said Michael Coors, CoorsTek Co-CEO. “It will be part of the next 100 years of our company’s history while adding more compelling experiences to the already special quality of downtown Golden.”
Construction on the project’s first phase will start later this year.
AC Development is dedicated to creating extraordinary urban places built on a foundation of commitments to a healthy planet, exceptional placemaking, and positive community impact. Based in Golden, AC Development serves as master developer, vertical developer, and long-term owner/operator for each of its projects.
