Sculptural arboreal grove
The triangular tower channels an aspen grove, welcoming guests with pebble-flecked concrete, fallen cottonwood timber, and a forest-floor canopy.
“The whole building was designed to feel like climbing a 13-story tree. The lobby, for example, is a re-imagining of a forest floor.”
Where it shines
Remarkable
Sculpted aspen-eye window alcoves and hanging mycelium tapestries define the biophilic tower.
Notable
Elevators chime with Rocky Mountain birdsong beside desks of fallen Colorado cottonwood.
What they say
One Michelin Key
Michelin
Also in Condé Nast Traveler, Wallpaper* and AFAR.
Colorado’s native aspen tree was the inspiration behind the striking and unique look of this modern eco-hotel, which opened in 2024.
Right in the middle
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Set in downtown Denver, the hotel faces Civic Center Park, within easy walking distance of the State Capitol and the Denver Art Museum.
The rooms
Raw concrete ceilings frame sculpted aspen-eye windows, where select rooms feature curved hammock benches for gazing out over the city and mountains.
The gym
- Gym
- 24-hour fitness center on Level 2 equipped with Peloton bikes, free weights, and cardio and strength equipment.
Dogs stay too.
Bar
Stellar Jay
Live-fire dishes and craft cocktails fill the thirteenth-floor lounge, looking out toward the State Capitol dome.
The hotel uses low-carbon concrete, 100% renewable energy, and dozens of other innovative strategies, like turning all its food waste into compost.
Restaurant
Pasque
Plant-forward cooking and fresh pasta are served on the ground floor beneath a canopy of mushroom leather.
How it began
Built on the triangular site of Colorado's first gas station, the carbon-positive tower takes its name and sculptural form from native quaking aspens.
“The 13-storey structure resembles 'a cluster of trees with lots of eyes', says Gang of Populus’ striking silhouette and patterned façade.”
Good to know
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Populus Denver
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Our shorthand
How we rate hotels.
The medals
Gold
Extremely rare. Sets the global standard.
Silver
Brilliant execution. And we’re picky.
Bronze
They did this well. You’ll notice.
Listed
A defining trait. Makes the hotel what it is.
The eight vibes
Design
Built around a vision. Even the door handles have a designer.
Luxe
Cared for at every turn. The bath is drawn before you ask.
Local
It could only be here. You wake up knowing where you are.
Social
Where the city goes out. The bar is full and the night is young.
Heritage
A building with a story. Once a palace, a monastery, a station.
Wellness
You leave feeling new. Rest, sweat, soak and sleep like a stone.
Classic
The city grew up with it. Same rituals, same regulars, same bar.
Resort
A world of its own. Something to do from breakfast to nightcap.
The scene
Lively
Where things happen: restaurants, shops, people.
Central
Well-located: walkable to some things, a short ride to more.
Quiet
Away from the crowds. Getting around takes intention.
Secluded
A place apart: the property is the destination.