Hilltop Modernism Walking Tour

✦ About the Tour ✦

Docomomo US/CO is excited to host a new architectural walking tour of the southern section of Denver’s Hilltop neighborhood. Originally platted in 1886, Hilltop rapidly grew during the post-war decades. Free of restrictive covenants found in nearby neighborhoods, Hilltop at mid-century proved a haven for Denver’s Jewish community.

Adventurous residents responded by commissioning homes and civic buildings in groundbreaking Modernist designs that reflect the tenets of styles ranging from the International Style to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Usonian vision. We will see buildings by noteworthy architects such as: Charles Haertling, Victor Hornbein, Joseph and Louise Marlow, Percival Goodman, Richard Crowther, Donald Roark, Musick and Lee, Robert Caudle, Rene Chouzenoux, Gordon White, and others.

The tour will take us by “Shangri-La”; designed in 1937 by Raymond Ervin in a Deco/Moderne style, (it is rumored to have been modeled on the lamasery in the movie “Lost Horizon”), and “Cableland”; built by cable television mogul Bill Daniels in 1988 in the Postmodern style, it is now the official residence of the Mayor of Denver and a Denver Historic Landmark.

✦ About the Guide ✦

Hilltop resident Tom Hart AIA is the Principal Architect of Hart Studio LLC. Hart Studio is an award-winning, full-service architecture firm specializing in the design of custom homes and the remodeling of finer homes.

Tom was a founding member and is on the board of Docomomo US/CO where he serves as the treasurer. He is also on the board of the Hilltop Neighborhood Association where he serves as the Zoning Committee Chair, and is a past member of the Historic Denver Board of Trustees.

Tom lives with his wife and dog in a Mid-century Modern home they remodeled that was originally designed by Rene Chouzenoux in 1955. He enjoys hiking and traveling. It is on his daily walks with his dog that he meets his neighbors and passes many of the homes that will be featured on the tour.

✦ Accessibility & Parking ✦

The neighborhood tour involves walking on sidewalks and pavement. Street parking is available, please be mindful of neighbor’s driveways.

Please note that tours take place rain, snow or shine. If your tour includes an outdoor portion, please dress for the weather. A member of the Docomomo team will contact all attendees directly should a tour be canceled for any reason.

By providing your email address, you agree to receive updates about Docomomo US/Colorado's programs, events and other happenings.

Also check out other Trips & Adventurous Activities in Denver, Entertainment events in Denver.