Hapa Sushi
Nestled one block from Denver's vibrant 16th Street Mall, Hapa Sushi LoDo presented us with an intriguing design challenge: create a space reflecting the restaurant's unique culinary philosophy of blending Asian and American influences. The name itself—Hawaiian for harmonious cultural fusion—became our conceptual foundation. We embraced the tension between traditional Japanese aesthetics and contemporary American design sensibilities, allowing neither to dominate but rather to create something entirely new. The urban context of Lower Downtown, with its historic brick buildings and proximity to Denver's sports venues, further enriched our approach to this cultural crossroads.
Materials narrate the Hapa story through thoughtful juxtaposition: warm wood floors and sleek metal details alongside textured stone surfaces. These material dialogues echo the culinary philosophy of complementary contrasts. Custom wood screens reference traditional Japanese carpentry techniques while incorporating contemporary geometries. Atmospheric lighting washes textured surfaces to create depth and shadows that transform throughout the day. The material palette remains disciplined—focusing on quality and authenticity rather than decorative excess.
Simplicity at Every Turn
Embracing an inclusive ethos, Hurley Place positions itself with the river as its focal point, inviting diverse communities and fostering economic vibrancy. The Riverfront development is comprised of two residential towers, a hotel tower, and an expansive central open space connecting to the river. This central connector is flanked by food & beverage and retail establishments and serves as both a connection to the Promenade but also a gathering space for the community.
