Three Big Ideas for Park Hill Park

Big changes are coming to Denver’s historic Park Hill Park and neighborhood—and they’re not just happening on city land. The long-disputed 155-acre Park Hill Golf Course site is being reimagined as a vibrant community park, thanks to a citywide visioning effort by Denver Parks and Recreation. With three inspiring concepts on the table—“Nature Runs Through,” “Colorado’s Front Door,” and “Cultural Core”—the project has the whole city dreaming.

But while Denver’s leaders and residents imagine the future of this once-private land, homeowners nearby have an equally powerful opportunity: to turn this public investment into private value through smart home upgrades, custom builds, and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). At Sustainable Design Build, we believe this kind of transformation in the neighborhood sets the perfect stage for homeowners to act now—and plan for long-term returns.

A Once-in-a-Generation Shift for Park Hill

When a neighborhood gets a 155-acre makeover, it changes everything—from walkability and recreation to property values and lifestyle. And that’s exactly what’s underway. After years of legal disputes, community votes, and rejected development plans, the city is finally moving forward with turning the former Park Hill Golf Course into a world-class public park.

And not just any park. The city is asking residents to help shape the vision:

• Will it be a lush natural retreat with water features and trails?

• A recreation hotspot with climbing walls and adventure loops?

• A cultural hub with concerts, farmers markets, and community events?

The answer may be: all of the above.

As the city prepares to release its first draft of the park’s design this fall, it’s clear that Park Hill is about to become one of Denver’s most desirable, amenity-rich areas. And with voters potentially approving funding in November, the transformation is poised to happen fast.

Courtesy of Parks and Rec, source from Denverite.

Three “Big Ideas” for the New Park

Denver Parks and Recreation has introduced three conceptual frameworks to inspire community input. These ideas are not exclusive, but rather meant to spark imagination:

1. Nature Runs Through

• Focuses on ecological restoration and nature immersion.

   

• Features include restored landscapes, a central green space, tree-lined paths, and a destination water play area.

   

2. Colorado’s Front Door

• Celebrates the state’s adventurous spirit.

   

• Includes elements like rock climbing, zip lines, and adventure loops to provide a mini taste of Colorado’s outdoor activities.

   

3. Cultural Core

• Emphasizes community and cultural engagement.

   

• Designed around a central lawn, amphitheater, and flexible event space for concerts, markets, and other gatherings.

Public Participation and Next Steps

• Surveys and Outreach:
  Parks and Rec has been collecting input via surveys and public meetings. A new survey is open until July 21, and physical copies are available at Martin Luther King Jr. and Hiawatha Davis Jr. recreation centers.

   

• Site Access Coming Soon:
  Residents will soon be able to walk through the site before development begins. Officials hope to open the grounds by the end of July.

   

• Design Process:
  Feedback from over 5,600 people so far highlights a desire for nature-focused areas, multi-use trails, splash pads, inclusive playgrounds, and social spaces.
  These ideas will shape the first design draft, expected this fall, which will also go through another round of public review.

   

Background and Future Funding

• The city acquired the land through a land swap after a prior developer’s plan was rejected by voters.

   

• Construction and amenities could be supported by a bond initiative up for vote in November.

   

The Smart Money Moves Nearby: Build, Add, Upgrade

So, what does this mean for Park Hill residents—and those in surrounding neighborhoods like Clayton, Skyland, and North City Park?

It means the time is ripe to plan for future ROI. Here’s why:

1. Rising Property Values:
   Proximity to parks and green space consistently ranks among the top drivers of property value appreciation. As this development progresses, homes near the new park will likely see a significant uptick in value. Home upgrades made now could yield even greater returns in the years ahead.

    

2. Custom Homes That Stand Out:
   If you’ve been holding off on building your dream home, this is your signal. Whether it’s a ground-up custom build or a complete whole home remodel, investing in quality, design-forward construction will help you stand out in a rapidly evolving neighborhood.

    

3. Maximize With ADUs and Additions:
   Denver’s ADU-friendly zoning in Park Hill creates real income-generating potential. Whether you’re looking to build a backyard cottage for family or a rental unit for passive income, ADUs are a smart response to increased demand—and Sustainable Design Build can handle the full process for you.

    

4. Future-Proof Your Home:
   Modernizing with sustainable systems, functional layouts, and upscale finishes not only improves livability—it positions your property for long-term resale strength in a more competitive market.

    

Why Work With Sustainable Design Build?

We know Park Hill. We’ve helped homeowners across the area reimagine what’s possible on their lots—from pop-top additions and full remodels to custom homes and accessory units that blend seamlessly with the charm of this established neighborhood.

And while our name is Sustainable Design Build, our mission is all about timeless craftsmanship. We don’t just build. We partner with homeowners to create spaces that elevate their lives—and increase their property’s potential.

Our team manages every step, from concept to permitting to completion, with a deep understanding of Denver’s unique zoning codes, design review processes, and neighborhood character. Whether your home needs a modern facelift or a transformative addition, we’re here to guide the way.