Steam Plant Concept: Local Partners transform Lowry landmark from old industrial to sizzling new lofts and patio homes.

In 2003, partners Jim Hartman and John Keith took a bold step and embarked on an adventure in real estate -- transforming the old Lowry Air Force Base power plant into one of the most exciting loft collections in town.

Starting with an old structure that had seen better days but had "good bones" having been built by the Army Corps of Engineers back in 1941, an army of consultants and engineers and designers and architects began the journey from preservation of the basic structure to creating an incredible landmark of just fourteen very special, not- one-like-the-other loft homes.

Achieving sellout in a very short time, the Steam Plant Lofts became known around town as a real winner, and in fact won the 2004 Historic Denver Community Preservation Award as Denver's Most Exceptional Residential Preservation Project of the Year. An integral part of the community was the group of nine Patio Homes beautifully designed to complement the industrial Steam Plant, yet offering unparalleled urban elegance. Thus the whole community became a unique enclave clustered around its own private tree-lined drive and Steam Plant Court.

The Patio Homes were designed by Arlo Braun with color palettes by a nationally known expert, and with standard features that made them sought after by a wide variety of buyers. Sold out within a short time, these Patio Homes have become an icon of what so many buyers are looking for at Lowry. Although sold out, buyers kept calling, and the team decided to expand this successful community by adding another seven Patio Homes and something new to Lowry -- Row Homes with a Live/Work component for those who want an office or studio at home.