Material Continuum

At the intersection of Denver’s historic and modern districts, our project establishes a live–work residency that houses ten sustainability-driven experts: five Outdoor Gear Designers and five Vintage Denim Artisans. The Vintage Denim Artisans reflect Larimer Square’s legacy of small shops and handcrafted goods, specializing in restoring, repurposing, and crafting long-lasting denim using historic machinery and sustainable dyeing methods. In contrast, the Outdoor Gear Designers represent the modernization of the surrounding business district, pioneering biodegradable materials, recycled fabrics, and technical innovations to challenge the plastic-heavy outdoor industry. While their disciplines differ, both prioritize durability, sustainability, and material longevity, creating an intersecting temporal relationship where high-performance innovation meets artisanal tradition.

Concept: Our project challenges the disposable nature of contemporary fashion by advocating for sustainability through craftsmanship. We aim to showcase how material awareness, skilled making, and intentional design can counteract mass consumption. This live–work space not only provides a functional environment for these experts but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the value of the clothing we produce and preserve.