Common Ground Community Design Project Reception | DOD 2026

About the project: The Common Ground Community Design Project is a new collaborative, civic design initiative launched by Denver Mayor Mike Johnston’s office, the CU Denver College of Architecture and Planning, the Lavender Hill Cultural District, and the Denver Architecture Foundation. Architecture students studying with Assistant Professor Leyuan Li were paired with local community organizations to design and build custom outdoor installations. These constructions will celebrate the power of design to create a Denver where everyone belongs.

Five local groups – the Colorado Nepalese Community, Greater Denver CARES Mentoring Movement, Colorado Immigrant Rights Coalition, Empower Media Exchange, and Lavender Hill Cultural District – were selected by a juried application process to work with the architecture students. Following the exhibit, the installations will be relocated permanently to the partner organizations’ respective neighborhoods to serve as lasting public gathering spaces.

A special one-time Common Ground 2026 publication showcasing Denver’s diverse design voices will also be available.

More information about the initiative can be found here.

Run of Show:

5pm: Celebration opens, refreshments available

5:15pm: Tour of Ellie Caulkins Opera House (tickets required)

6pm: Welcome remarks by Mayor Mike Johnston

6:15pm: Tour of Ellie Caulkins Opera House (tickets required)

7pm: Celebration concludes

Please note that DAF events take place rain, snow or shine. If your tour includes an outdoor portion, please dress for the weather. DAF staff will contact all attendees directly should a tour be cancelled for any reason.

Photo credit: The office of Mayor Mike Johnston