Notable
PHOTO ALBUM
730 Simms Street , Lakewood
David Zucker and his team at Zocalo thought outside the box when they envisioned the adaptive reuse of a 1970 ’ s concrete office building . The company started the redevelopment and entitlement process for the conversion of the vacant office space just as the citizens of Lakewood voted in favor of Amendment 200 , essentially stopping all development of multifamily in the city that wasn ’ t on urban renewal sites . The team knew it would take some work to gain the favor of the community , so they met with neighbors and community members to identify how the property could meet the needs of the area . Soon after , Zucker was introduced to the founder of the Lakewood School of Music , a nonprofit struggling to find affordable rehearsal and performance space , and a partnership was born .
Originally a four-story structure , Zocalo added a fifth floor to provide another level of apartments , as well as a rooftop deck with stunning mountain views . A courtyard was cut into the center of the office building , allowing for windows that provide natural light for the apartments on the interior of the community .
Zocalo built out the music school , complete with practice rooms , recording studio , and a performance hall that accommodates an audience of 100 guests , and then signed a twenty-year , rent-free lease with the school .
218 Units
6.07 Acres 10
717 1,369 35.9 1.61
2,140
Floor Plans
5 Stories Average SF
Average Rent ($)
Density ( unit / acre )
Parking / unit
Commercial / sq . ft
In a nod to the Notable partnership , the lobby features a bright , music-inspired mural created by Denver artist , Pat Milbery . The music theme is continued throughout the hallways and common spaces , where colorful art featuring iconic musicians adorn the walls .
The rehearsal space and large art studio allow artist residents to live in the community where they work . Additionally , all residents enjoy access to a fitness center , game room with ping pong , bike storage and repair shop , pet wash , and a special park made just for dogs . At home , residents enjoy the quiet a concrete building offers along with high ceilings , sleek flooring , and full kitchens with granite countertops . This income-restricted property is 100 % occupied only 4 months after opening its doors . Zocalo acted as the developer , general contractor , and now manages this much needed asset .
26 | TRENDS OCTOBER 2022 www . aamdhq . org