Design Complexity Meets Concrete Ingenuity on Award-Winning Project

When it comes to concrete construction, pushing boundaries is in Baker Construction’s DNA. The One River North project in Denver, Colorado, is a striking example of what’s possible when bold architecture meets expert execution.

The 16-story mixed-use development isn’t just another high rise. It’s a one-of-a-kind structure with a “canyon” carved right through its façade. Inspired by the mountain ranges scattered on Denver’s horizon, the canyon winds up and across the façade with curving walls, cascading waterfalls, and native plantings.

It’s an eye-catching landmark that demanded creativity and precision from day one.

 

Craftsmanship That Matches the Vision

The general contractor, Saunders Construction led the challenging project. Baker’s Denver team collaborated closely with the client and other trade partners to build safety and accountability into the project plan.

Executing the canyon structure required extensive planning, exceptional craftsmanship, and rigorous construction project management. The team constructed flowing, curved decks that span multiple elevations and orientations, integrating them seamlessly with vertical elements.

At the canyon’s widest point — an overhanging feature at level 8 — the team employed cantilevered beam shoring to support large concrete pours without traditional vertical re-shoring. This temporary structural system transferred loads back into the building, ensuring the concrete could cure safely while maintaining the architectural design intent.

Given the length and complexity of the spans, the team designed in camber to account for natural deflection. This upward curve in the formwork allowed the decks to settle into a level plane as the concrete cured and gravity took effect. This process was critical to achieving the architect’s vision.

To meet tight sequencing demands, the Baker team incorporated high-performance concrete mixes. This enabled rapid curing of elevated decks and same-day placement of vertical elements, including core walls and columns. Combined with optimized post-tensioning and re-shoring strategies, this approach allowed the team to maintain momentum and ultimately top out ahead of schedule.

 

Technology as a Core Enabler

One River North’s unique geometry called for more than conventional means and methods. The team leveraged building information modeling (BIM) and 3D printing from early planning through execution, enhancing coordination across disciplines and improving constructability analysis.

The use of a 3D-printed model gave the field and engineering teams a shared visual reference, helping them anticipate sequencing challenges, streamline reshoring strategies, and optimize formwork cycles. It bridged the gap between digital planning and hands-on field execution, resulting in higher efficiency and greater precision.

 

An Award-Winning Concrete Construction Project

Construction began in September 2021, and the project topped out in December 2022. By the time construction wrapped in spring 2024, the team had placed over 18,398 cubic yards of concrete. The project team maintained a 0 lost-time accident rate.

In recognition of the innovative approach and execution excellence, the Baker team has earned multiple awards for the project:

The project is a showcase of collaboration, technical ingenuity, and the unmatched skill of Baker’s craftworkers. Their ability to solve complex problems in the field and bring ambitious designs to life is what continues to set Baker apart.