For more than 120 years, Montview Boulevard Presbyterian Church has been a prominent landmark and community cornerstone in Denver’s historic Park Hill neighborhood. Over time the campus footprint has adjusted to the needs of a twenty-first century congregation, while remaining true to its history.
In 2018, Tryba Architects led a collaborative process resulting in the Long-Term Campus Vision, a roadmap for restoration and construction decisions over the next 15-20 years. Top priority projects from the Vision were identified and Tryba Architects provided comprehensive support for a successful capital campaign. Guided by the four cornerstones of Beauty & Awe, Stewardship, Connectivity, and Responsiveness, the first phase of the Vision was brought to life in a stunning renovation that renewed and revitalized the aging structure.
As part of the improvements to Westminster Commons, a new second floor space is enclosed by a glazed façade—the Lantern—that brings new light and life to the Dahlia Street entry. Elevating the surface of the existing entry court, new stone paving and planters create an elegant, fresh and welcoming address for the church.
Enhanced arrival with welcoming reception desk and view to Eudora Lane orients visitors, continuing the visual experience through the entire block. One of the church's many original stained glass windows was repurposed for the atrium.
Refurbished windows and stucco of the Education Wing, new stone paving and greater accessibility improve the quality of the narrow lane-like space. A new glazed façade to Westminster Commons provides a welcoming lantern-like element at the termination of the entry axis.
The Miller Center was converted into a flexible, dynamic space for services, educational programs and performances. Careful restoration of historic wood paneling and windows, lighting upgrades, and refinishing of the pews elevate the interior experience of this historic sanctuary space. Electronically controlled blackout blinds provide the opportunity to rediscover the dramatic natural light that was a fundamental part of the experience of the original sanctuary.
The Miller Center now opens up into the Library and Heritage Center. Library storage shelves and heritage displays are organized into a long linear wall element fronting the Miller Center, defining the character of this historic space.
The double-height glazed ‘Lantern’ dramatically presents a warm and glowing heart of the campus. A contemporary yet complementary new mezzanine space is bathed in natural light, offering a place for quiet contemplation or small-group gathering.
