The Colorado State University Spur Campus project included the construction of three buildings – Vida, Terra, and Hydro – adjacent to one another, under three separate contracts for one Owner. JE Dunn constructed all three buildings concurrently, but each in a different phase of construction from its neighbor.
Hydro’s design was inspired by the concept of a river eddy, which forms behind a force that disrupts the water flow. The water-inspired metal scrim and textural concrete panels capitalize on surface textures to use light and shadow to emulate the movement of water and create a dynamic building facade.
Hydro, Greek for ‘water’, is a 134,122-square-foot Water Resource Center. The facility is unique in the world of advancing state-of-the-art practices in water, providing a place for water-oriented conversations and conferences, highlighting linkages between water and urban and rural food systems and energy, and showcasing water sustainability. With its connection to a restored section of the South Platte River in north Denver, Hydro also provides a home for community activities and hands-on water education for students and families. Major partners on site at Hydro include Denver Water and the CSU Salazar Center for North American Conversation.
At the heart of the Colorado State University Spur Campus lies a deep commitment to sustainability and community engagement. This ethos is reflected in every aspect of the campus, from its innovative design features to the partnerships fostered throughout the project.
Sustainability is ingrained in the CSU Spur Campus, with each building pursuing LEED Gold certification. The campus challenges traditional construction practices, pushing visitors and project teams alike to reconsider the importance of sustainable design. Key features of this commitment include:
Additionally, the Hydro building pays homage to the site’s industrial history by incorporating the historic McConnell Welders building. By enfolding this two-story structure into the new design, CSU not only preserved a piece of local heritage but also saved over 384 metric tons of embodied energy. This adaptive reuse furthers the campus’s goal of carbon neutrality and provides a dedicated space for local artists and businesses, enriching the cultural fabric of the community.
