A Rare Midcentury Gem in Belcaro Up for Landmark Status

A modest-looking bungalow at 510 S. Garfield Street in Denver’s Belcaro neighborhood is under consideration for landmark designation, potentially shielding it from demolition. While its exterior appears ordinary, the interior showcases a rare and remarkably preserved example of Usonian architecture—a midcentury style pioneered by Frank Lloyd Wright in the 1930s to bring modern design to middle-class homes.

Key features of the style include:

• L-shaped layouts

• Glass walls opening to the backyard

• Low-pitched roofs

• Built-in furniture and indoor-outdoor flow

The house, built in 1956 by local architect Joseph “Gerry” Dion, reflects Wright’s influence. Dion, known for Englewood’s Arapahoe Acres, is believed to have designed only this one residence in Denver, though he also worked on institutional buildings.

The Kulish family, current owners of the home, requested the landmark designation. City planner Abigail Christman supports the move, praising the home’s originality and its powerful time-capsule effect. On July 15, the Denver City Council’s Land Use, Transportation & Infrastructure Committee unanimously advanced the proposal for further consideration.

If designated, the house would gain preservation protections, making it more difficult to demolish or significantly alter, while celebrating a little-seen piece of Denver’s architectural history.

Who was Frank Lloyd Wright?

Frank Lloyd Wright was one of the most influential architects of the 20th century, known for pioneering a uniquely American approach to design that blended form, function, and harmony with nature. Within this context, his Usonian architecture—developed in the 1930s—was a groundbreaking effort to make modern, well-designed homes more accessible to the middle class. These homes emphasized simplicity, open floor plans, and a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. Though Wright never built a home in Denver himself, his architectural philosophy had a lasting impact on designers like Joseph “Gerry” Dion, whose McCallin-Kulish House is a rare and faithful expression of Wright’s Usonian ideals in the region.

A Catalyst for Design-Inspired Belcaro Neighborhood Upgrades

The preservation of the McCallin-Kulish House also offers an exciting opportunity to inspire neighboring homeowners in Belcaro and throughout Denver. While not every home will achieve landmark status, the architectural beauty and lasting value of well-designed spaces can encourage residents to reimagine their own homes. Whether considering a custom home, a seamless home addition, or a full whole home remodel, investing in thoughtful design can dramatically improve comfort, function, and property value. Sustainable Design Build specializes in helping homeowners transform their spaces with elevated craftsmanship and tailored architectural solutions that enhance both lifestyle and neighborhood appeal.

Partnering with Sustainable Design Build for Architecture, Interior Design, and Construction

More than just a builder, Sustainable Design Build is a full-service partner specializing in residential architecture, interior design, and construction for high-end home projects in the Denver area. Whether you’re drawn to the clean lines of midcentury modernism or looking to maximize your home’s footprint with smart, functional upgrades, SDB provides a seamless design-build experience from concept to completion. Their team works closely with each homeowner to craft spaces that are not only beautiful but deeply livable—whether that means designing a detached accessory dwelling unit (ADU), executing a sophisticated pop-top addition, or remodeling interiors with custom millwork, built-ins, and curated finishes.

With a comprehensive understanding of local permitting, architectural styles, and luxury design trends, Sustainable Design Build ensures every project is tailored, compliant, and built to stand the test of time. Their integrated approach allows for efficiency, transparency, and exceptional attention to detail—whether you’re planning a whole home remodel, a home addition, or a fully custom new build. As homes like the McCallin-Kulish House demonstrate, architectural integrity and thoughtful design can make a lasting impact—and with the right team by your side, your home can become the next inspiring piece of Denver’s evolving residential landscape.