From Turf to  Public Prairie at Denver’s Civic Center

At the western edge of Civic Center Park, Denver’s City and County Building is surrounded by classical formality – historic architecture, symmetrical paths, and a broad sweep of irrigated bluegrass. But as the city faces hotter, drier summers and growing pressure to conserve water, that lawn no longer makes sense.

In partnership with Denver Parks & Recreation and Denver Water, and with support from Mayor Mike Johnston, the City is reimagining this landscape. Superbloom, in collaboration with Birch Ecology, HydroSystems KDI, and Elevation Consulting, is leading the turf conversion design to convert the existing bluegrass turf into a dynamic, water-wise prairie of native grasses and wildflowers

The transformation is both symbolic and functional. The new landscape will showcase the beauty and biodiversity of Colorado’s native ecosystems while dramatically reducing water use and maintenance inputs. A high-efficiency irrigation system will support establishment, but the long-term goal is self-sufficiency – a resilient landscape that thrives with less, and is built to support future generations.

Pollinators will find new habitat, soil will regenerate, and visitors – from schoolchildren to city leaders – will encounter a refreshed vision of civic space that looks and feels like Colorado.

This landscape transformation project, through turf conversion, is part of the city’s broader commitment to climate adaptation through the It’s In Denver’s Nature campaign. Construction begins in 2026, marking a new chapter for one of Denver’s most iconic civic sites.

Client: City & County of Denver

Year: 2024

Services: Turf Conversion, Landscape Architecture

Press:

https://coloradosun.com/2024/10/24/denver-city-and-county-building-turf-removal-prairie-grass/

https://www.fastcompany.com/91375097/how-a-growing-demand-for-drought-tolerant-local-plants-is-changing-the-landscaping-industry