The Spire project, a towering 41-story residential high-rise, located in the heart of downtown Denver is more than just a building; it’s a symbol of perseverance in the face of adversity, and it played a pivotal role in shaping JE Dunn’s legacy in the Denver market.
JE Dunn was awarded the Spire project after the success of the Glass House, another iconic Denver structure. However, Spire brought with it a unique set of challenges that would test the company’s expertise and resolve. As Dustin Liljehorn from JE Dunn recalls, “Spire was one of the tallest buildings in Denver at the time and the largest single-unit condo building in the city. But the road to completion was far from smooth.”
Construction on Spire began just as the 2008 financial crisis was unfolding. Only 3.5 stories into the project, the financial backing for the development fell through. The original lender, overwhelmed by the rapidly deteriorating economic conditions, pulled out, leaving the project in limbo. “We sat from September to January with the job stalled. But rather than succumb to the crisis, JE Dunn, alongside our development partner, worked tirelessly to find a solution,” Liljehorn said.
Through strong relationships and sheer determination, the project managed to secure new financing, which allowed construction to resume. “We were able to restart the job 4.5 months later,” Liljehorn said. This period of uncertainty could have derailed the entire project, but JE Dunn’s and the development team’s ability to navigate these challenges ensured that Spire not only survived but thrived.
The building’s design also posed significant challenges. As one of the tallest structures JE Dunn had undertaken at the time, Spire required advanced construction techniques and careful coordination. The building’s striking glass facade, which gives it a modern and sleek appearance, was a first for JE Dunn in Denver. “Spire was our first high rise building. It was a big win for us in terms of self-performed concrete and hoisting in the Denver market,” Liljehorn said.
As the project neared completion, another hurdle emerged when the lender that had stepped in to finance the project, was taken over by the FDIC. Fortunately, the project was far enough along that the FDIC allowed it to be completed. Despite these financial uncertainties, JE Dunn managed to deliver Spire on schedule, a feat that speaks to the company’s operational efficiency and steadfastness.
The building, which features 496 residential units, a range of amenities including pools, a health club and a dog park, and ground-floor retail space, has become a landmark in downtown Denver.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the project was its ability to continue construction during the 2008 Democratic National Convention (DNC), held just across the street. “The logistics of working with the Secret Service and operating with the DNC right next door were challenging, but we were able to keep construction going without any issues,” Liljehorn said.
Spire stands as a symbol of JE Dunn’s ability to overcome obstacles and deliver projects that redefine urban living. It’s a story of determination, collaboration, and the relentless pursuit of excellence—a story that continues to inspire and shape JE Dunn’s legacy in Denver and beyond.