The Urban Land Institute Colorado honored the state’s most impactful projects and industry leaders at its 2026 Impact Awards, held April 2 at the Seawell Ballroom at the Denver Center for the Performing Arts.
The annual awards program recognizes excellence in development, design and land use, spotlighting projects that advance sustainability, innovation and community impact across Colorado.
Individual Award Winners
- Rising Star Award: Britt Diehl, Downtown Denver Partnership
- Member of the Year: Bill Mahar, Norris Design
- Legacy Award: Marilee Utter, Citiventure Associates
Project Award Winners
Influence Award
- Pancratia Hall Lofts
An adaptive reuse of a 1930 landmark on Denver’s Loretto Heights campus, delivering 74 deeply affordable units (30–80% AMI). The project blends historic preservation—restoring stained glass, terrazzo floors and vaulted spaces—with modern all-electric systems, setting a new standard for sustainable, equitable housing.
Innovation Award
- The Mothership
A first-of-its-kind campus supporting youth experiencing homelessness, co-locating shelter, transitional housing and critical services. With 136 beds and a “neighborhood” model design, the project expands capacity while fostering stability, independence and long-term opportunity.
Inspire Award
- 16th Street Revitalization
A transformative reimagining of more than a mile of downtown Denver’s primary corridor. The project introduces ADA-accessible design, curbless walkways and expanded tree canopy while reinforcing the corridor’s role as the economic and cultural heart of the city.
Infill Award
- The Hunter (Colorado Springs)
A 214-unit multifamily development enhancing the urban fabric with a pedestrian-focused streetscape, integrated amenities, and thoughtful design that strengthens walkability and connection to the surrounding environment.
Inclusive Award
- Sun Valley Block 3
The first phase of a major redevelopment led by the Denver Housing Authority, delivering 358 mixed-income units—80% affordable—alongside community-focused amenities like the Sun Valley Food Hub.
Chairs’ Award
- Nest56 at Denargo Market
A 56-unit permanent supportive housing community for youth transitioning out of homelessness, combining fully furnished residences with on-site services and trauma-informed design to support long-term stability.
This year’s winners reflect a strong emphasis on affordable housing, adaptive reuse and community-centered development, underscoring how Colorado’s real estate industry continues to evolve to meet pressing social and economic needs.
About the Impact Awards: Drawing inspiration from the ULI Awards for Excellence, the premier international program recognizing land use achievements, the Impact Awards celebrate the best in real estate and land use in Colorado, honoring projects that embody ULI’s best practices and mission priorities that make a significant impact on the built environment, while also demonstrating successful business and economic models.
