“Historic nouveau.” That’s the phrase we’re coining to describe the lobby of the restored Colorado National Bank Building, which opens next month at 17th and Champa streets as a luxury hotel. Until a $50 million-plus renovation project by Marriott’s Renaissance began in June 2012, the iconic white marble edifice had sat vacant since U.S. Bank moved out in 2007. But when the Marriott property opens this winter, it won’t just be the 230 rooms or bank vault turned private dining room that draws our attention: In conjunction with Denver Urban Renewal Authority’s “Project Art” initiative (which requires a public art component in any private development the organization funds), the multilevel atrium will double as an open-to-the-public art gallery.

Preeminent Colorado artist Allen Tupper True’s 16 original American Indian murals—such as Happy Hunting Ground (pictured)—have been painstakingly restored to their previous 1920s grandeur and will be juxtaposed with, among others, contemporary works from photographer Jenny Gummersall and abstract impressionist Virginia Maitland. Who said you need a museum membership to see a masterpiece?

5280 November 2013
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5280.com Exclusive: Take a look at Project Art endeavors around town.