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Blair-Caldwell African American Research Library

In 2001, Mayor Wellington Webb decided to build a project as his legacy to the City of Denver. A new Denver Public Library branch located in historic Five Points would honor the history of African Americans in the Rocky Mountain West. This historic commission had several goals: create a culturally important building that would be of its time, fit comfortably yet respectfully into a historic context, serve as a gateway to the redeveloping Five Points neighborhood, and integrate art seamlessly into its design. The result: a nationally recognized, award-winning building that has become an icon for the region’s African American community and a highly popular event venue, generating much-needed funds for the Denver Public Library.

This Library’s unique service model combines a public library, a research library with space for a visiting Fellow, art gallery, museum and event/community center. The galleries, used for display as well as circulation, lead to a dramatic staircase ascending three stories with beautiful views of downtown Denver, signifying the achievements of African Americans in the Denver community and beyond.

Location

Denver, Colorado

Scale

40,000 sf

Awards

American Institute of Architects, Colorado North Chapter, Merit Award
Rocky Mountain Masonry Institute, Masterworks in Masonry Merit Award

Practice Areas

Cultural

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Contact

hello@ozarch.com
303-861-5704

Location

3003 Larimer Street
Denver, CO 80205

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