CU Denver First Year Student Housing

The City Heights Residence Hall (City Heights) marks an exciting development for the University of Colorado Denver and the tri-institutional Auraria campus. This LEED Gold certified facility accommodates 555 students and features a diverse range of study and lounge spaces designed to foster academic and social engagement. The ground floor offers opportunities for engagement, with offices for the University's housing and dining staff, a dining hall serving the entire CU population, a “corner-store” retail space, and the three-story Learning Commons. 

The Learning Commons integrates campus-wide tutoring services within a collaborative "open lab" environment, alongside flexible classrooms and specialized departments focused on enhancing the student resident experience. Positioned at the heart of the University of Colorado Denver’s neighborhood, City Heights significantly impacts campus life, transitioning the campus from a commuter-only environment to one with a vibrant 24-hour presence. 

City Heights contributes to defining CU Denver’s campus identity and strengthens its connection to downtown Denver. With prominent frontage on the Tivoli Quad—the central green of the Auraria campus— the building boasts a beautifully landscaped internal courtyard, a green roof on the Learning Commons, and breathtaking landscaping and views. These features, combined with vibrant outdoor spaces, create a lively and supportive environment for residents, fostering a sense of community for all students. 

Achieving USGBC LEED Gold certification in early 2022, City Heights exemplifies high standards of sustainability and performance. The project highlights CU Denver’s commitment to environmental stewardship through conservation of natural areas, habitat restoration, and biodiversity promotion. Green initiatives include design for health and well-being, energy efficiency, water conservation, a green roof on the Learning Commons, rain gardens, a landscaped courtyard, and beekeeping infrastructure on the podium roof, maintained by facilities staff. 

Biophilic Design is integral to the project’s sustainability strategy, incorporating natural views, materials, and visual design elements to enhance the connection with nature. Additionally, the site supports on-site and off-site composting initiatives.