Specs: Bringing the Garden back to life

Concourse C, Denver International Airport

Time: Renovation complete October 2007

Budget: Approximately $375,000

Details: After a couple of years investigating the source for leaking, which left many of us curiously scratching our heads as we tried to locate the source, we determined excavation of all materials was necessary.  The platforms were re-surfaced with water proofing and sealant, and then replanted.  Special thanks to Dave Rhodes, Manager of Maintenance and Engineering and Reggie Norman, Senior Architect, for understanding the architectural importance of this significant work of art.  Their contributions and attention to detail worked to solidify the importance of bringing the artwork back to life. 

Project team: Colleen Fanning, Art Program Manager and project manager; Dave Rhodes and Reggie Norman, Maintenance and Engineering, Denver International Airport; Bob Hannum Project Manager for Michael Singer Studios, Gordon Melin and Mike Earl with DMJM Airports; Chad Racine and Brett Toll, FCI

Art: An Architectural Garden

Artist Michael Singer has been instrumental in transforming public spaces into thought provoking environments that are quiet and meditative. His understanding of architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design are important components of his work.  Most notably, the Interior Garden is a site-specific work located on concourse C which evokes images of ancient excavated ruins.  Conceptually, excavated ruins on the rolling eastern plains of Colorado, where Denver International Airport is sited, this work offers a unique contemplative space to enjoy before you travel to your next destination.

Space: Bringing the Outside, Inside

The integration of the Interior Garden works harmoniously with the design elements of exposed steel armature and clearstory windows of Concourse C.  The beautiful design of the train platform flooring below the Garden, also designed by Singer, and coupled with the natural light streaming into the center core of the concourse, creates a lovely environment that encourages travelers to linger in the space.