Populus is an extraordinary 265-room, 13-story hotel in downtown Denver, Colorado. Part of what makes it special is obvious: its organic forms are inspired by the growth process of the state’s native aspen trees, scientifically known as Populus tremuloides.
But its design hides another special feature: it is the first carbon-positive hotel in the United States, because its rainwater recycling, use of coal waste, and green roof, which benefits local wildlife, not only reduce carbon emissions, but also facilitate the removal of additional carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
The design is by Studio Gang and the development is by Urban Villages. The goal is for Populus to become a new social hub for downtown Denver while revolutionizing sustainable building.
