South Platte Crossing Sets the Stage for a Community-Driven Future, Bringing Mixed-Income Housing to Commerce City
Earlier this month, Carvell Architects joined @Urban Land Conservancy, @Nesbitt Development, and @Brinshore Development at the grand opening event of South Platte Crossing, a 60-unit affordable housing development located at 7130 Colorado Boulevard in Commerce City, Colorado. Not only is this a milestone for our firm, since we are committed to producing designs that uphold a deep understanding and commitment to excellence, but it is also a milestone for the community as the project delivers high-quality, mixed-income housing for households earning between 30% and 80% of the area median income (AMI).
Solving for the “Missing Middle”
The concept of “Missing Middle Housing,” phrased over a decade ago, speaks to the gap between the types of housing that the market delivers and what households are looking for. Now, over a decade later, this concept has evolved to speak to affordability: the types of housing that the market wants, and what the buyer can afford. At South Platte Crossing, we are able to deliver a community that is not only accessible, but doesn’t sacrifice on design. Sustainability, shared community, and wellness are emphasized for residents. “Missing Middle” helps bring home prices down and make homeownership more attainable. It supports the idea that everyone deserves the opportunity to live in a safe, affordable home connected to the community.
Good Design, Connected Community and Sustainable to the Core
The four-story, U-shaped structure consists of studio, one-, two-, and three-bedroom units designed to accommodate a range of households, with flanking residential wings that frame a landscaped, south-facing courtyard. This configuration is purposefully designed to allow for daylight to penetrate deeply into all units and common areas, supporting resident wellness while reducing energy loads. The building features approximately 5,000 square feet of shared community space across two levels, including a second-floor community lounge, a fitness center and conference room, and secure bike storage. The terrace is connected to the courtyard by an architectural stair, reinforcing connections between indoor and outdoor gathering spaces.
Sustainability is embedded throughout, both in architectural expression and building systems. We designed to comply with the 2018 International Energy Conservation Code as well as receiving Bronze Certification under the National Green Building Standard. Passive solar strategies, including west-facing sun shading devices, complemented by high-performance glazing, R49 roof insulation, and R29 wall insulation. All units are served by energy-efficient electric heat pumps, and the building includes a range of green infrastructure systems: EV charging stalls, rain gardens with concealed detention systems, and rainwater collection deployed on site. All living areas are naturally lit and ventilated. The project also meets Enterprise Green Communities 2020 certification standards.
Unveiling a New Urban Vision
Situated adjacent to the RTD N Line’s Commerce City / 72nd Avenue Transit Station, South Platte Crossing leverages transit-oriented development to provide equitable access to jobs, education, and cultural resources in the Denver metro area.
As one of the first major developments near the 72nd and Colorado Boulevard commuter rail stop, South Platte Crossing is a critical catalyst for revitalization in the area. The site is a key implementation of the 2013 Adams County AREC Station Master Plan (STAMP), which calls for incremental, transit-connected development of underutilized parcels surrounding the station. By introducing diversified housing on just 0.81 acres, the project embodies smart, sustainable infill and activates an important mobility hub for the city.
Intentional Design Sets The Stage For The Future
South Platte Crossing is a modern example of thoughtful infill – a 60-unit community built on just 0.81 acres adjacent to a light rail station. It’s also proof that density, livability, and design integrity can coexist. We were able to incorporate this new living environment into an existing neighborhood without making major changes to the overall character of the area.
South Platte Crossing stands as a testament to what’s possible when intentional design, community collaboration, and equitable development converge. By integrating sustainable architecture with thoughtful infill and transit-oriented planning, this project not only delivers critically needed affordable housing but sets a new precedent for neighborhood revitalization in Commerce City. With its mix of unit types, abundant community space, and green infrastructure, the development fosters both individual wellness and collective opportunity. It also reinforces the broader vision for a connected, inclusive district where housing, services, and transit access are seamlessly intertwined.
As phase two unfolds, South Platte Crossing will continue to anchor a walkable, mixed-use neighborhood designed for long-term stability. At Carvell Architects, we believe that architecture must serve people and place, and this project is a shining example of that ethos. It’s more than a building; it’s a foundation for a vibrant, sustainable future. We’re proud to be part of it.
