DENVER— Following years of dormancy, the Ironworks building in Denver has been carefully restored into a new event venue set to open this fall.
Dating back to the turn of the century (1903), the Midwest Steel and Ironworks was a Denver landmark, serving as the headquarters for the drafting and operations of Midwest Steel.
The complex was once involved in the construction of many famous Denver landmarks including Mountain States Telephone and Telegraph Company Office Building, the Continental Oil Building, East Denver High School, and the Denver City and County Building. In addition, the company also supplied steel structural components for the Moffat Tunnel, James Peak, Colorado and the Royal Gorge Suspension Bridge near Canon City.
Located at 25 Larimer Street in Denver, Ironworks will include nearly 7,000 square feet of event space, an open floor plan, original turret and large bar, that can hold events, concerts and festivals for more than 1,000 guests with combined indoor and outdoor space.
Mile High Station that opened in 2001 for weddings and events, is adjacent to the Ironworks buildings. Given its proximity the Bronco’s stadium, it became the ideal spot for pre-game functions during Bronco’s home games. Ironworks in on the same path to be as historically relevant and meticulously updated.
Local businessman, Joe O’Dea is the brains behind the restoration. He originally purchased the complex for office space for his construction company, Concrete Express and today the company is headquartered inside Mile High Station.
“We wanted to offer a modern, open space and still keep some of the original touches like the exposed brick and steel beams,” said O’dea.
Denver-based Architect Antonio Livaudais,of Livaudais Architecture, designed the new space inspired by the original building’s art-deco industrial heritage. Ironwork’s elegant and classic décor boasts a captivating bar, exposed brick, multiple chandeliers, and original hardwood floors. There are also great urban additions, including a patio flanked by oversized doors allowing the venue to open up and enjoy Colorado’s incredible backyard.
Photo and renderings courtesy of Concrete Express
