The Maven Hotel and the Dairy Block | DOD 2026 Insider Tour
September 26, 2026
About the tour: Join DAF and The Maven for a guided tour of The Maven Hotel and Dairy Block, exploring the architecture, art, and creative energy that define this unique Denver destination. Attendees will discover The Maven’s industrial-inspired design and its celebration of local makers, artists, and craftsmanship. Outside the hotel, guests will explore the integration with The Dairy Block and the campus’ transformation from the historic Windsor Dairy into a vibrant modern micro-district filled with restaurants, retail, art, and gathering spaces. The group will explore distinctive murals, sculptures, and installations that showcase Colorado’s creative community before finishing in The Alley, where art, architecture, hospitality, and local culture come together to create a true sense of place.
About the building: Dairy Block was once home to Windsor Dairy – a company brought to prominence by H. Brown Cannon. Built in 1916 by Fisher & Fisher, the building was the home of Windsor Dairy until 1928 when Meadow Gold bought Windsor Dairy and used the building for their operations until 1973.
Dairy Block builds on the history of the building. It opened in 2017 with much of the project being designed by SAR+ Architects and the Maven Hotel being designed by JNS Architecture and Design. Today the block is a vibrant downtown experience with a variety of art, retailers, and food and beverage to explore.
About the tour guide: Kristbjorg Johnson brings creativity, energy and a genuine passion for hospitality to her role as Director of Rooms at The Maven. Over the past three years, she has grown with the hotel from Front Office Manager to Director of Rooms, bringing thoughtful leadership and an unwavering focus on creating memorable guest experiences.
Kristbjorg’s personality blends optimism, creativity and insight with an energetic drive to bring ideas to life. She thrives on finding fresh ways to elevate the guest journey and brings an artistic eye and thoughtful perspective to how guests experience The Maven. Her enthusiasm, adaptability and commitment to hospitality make her a valued leader who continually inspires her team to create experiences that feel personal, engaging and distinctly Maven.
Accessibility: This tour will walk through a city block and alley around The Dairy Block campus. Steps may be required throughout the tour.
Refund policy: The Denver Architecture Foundation is a nonprofit educational organization. Ticket sales support the Foundation in continuing to provide quality events to the public. We are unable to provide refunds or credits for any reason less than 14 days prior to the event.
Please note that DAF tours 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.