Presented by: Rodwin Architecture

Our proposal for the new Boulder Elks is a wholistic re-envisioning of the entire site and building, inside and out. Our proposal begins with a “build it and they shall come” concept of how to spark a renaissance for Boulder Elks; to make it once again one of the most vibrant social and community hubs for Boulder. We balanced that ambitious vision that with the realities of development. Our proposal starts with the a practical question of how to create both an immediate and long-term funding source for the Elks that would be in alignment with Elks values, and serve the highest good for the community. We propose selling the -3 acre western parcel (AKA the ‘Field of Dreams’) to be used for “Missing Middle housing”. It would be a Net-Zero-energy community of 24-30 triplex-style townhomes that would fit harmoniously into the neighborhood and help fill a critical need in Boulder.

Our proposed design considers every aspect of the challenge: how to respect the original architecture, but also make it functional, sustainable, accessible, safe and beautiful. Every design decision began with the question of “How to we most effectively bring in a new generation of Elks members, and make the property attractive to the community to bring in outside revenue?” as that is the economic and social fuel for the future of the project. We added high-value amenities such as Pickleball courts (paid for through a lease with local pickleball groups), and a splash pad, hot tub and playground by the pool to encourage both families to become members, and year-round use.

Strong presentation and clear articulation of both a concept and a potential path to execution. While the jury noted that many aspects of the design—like the proposed housing—would be difficult to realize, this entry best demonstrated the idea of presenting a challenge along with a feasible solution, which is what this award celebrates.

SUSTAINABLE DESIGN:

The overall project is designed to meet LEED Gold standards. Our proposal demonstrates how historic preservation and forward-thinking sustainability can reinforce one another. Respecting the building’s mid-century modern character, we retain its clean lines, embodied carbon, and geometric rhythms, while upgrading every system to meet Net-Zero Energy performance. A 50 kWh rooftop solar array with battery storage (to shave peak loads), paired with a (15 well) ground-source heat pump, Energy Star appliances, and all-LED lighting, ensures long-term operational efficiency. Envelope upgrades – including high-performance windows, air sealing, and additional insulation (spray foam cavity and 1″ of rigid exterior) – enhance comfort while lowering future utility costs & maintaining the spirit of the original aesthetic. Restored skylights and shading-optimized glazing bring natural daylight deep into the interiors, reducing lighting loads and celebrating the airy mid-century ethos.

Our design emphasizes health and community resilience: all finishes will meet strict California indoor air-quality standards; biophilic interiors connect visitors to nature, and low-flow fixtures alongside xeric landscaping minimize water use. Landscape improvements enhance fire resistance, reduce the heat-island effect, and soften the form of the building. EV and bike charging encourage sustainable mobility, while new furnishings – durable, locally sourced, and reflective of mid-century design -marry historic inspiration with modern comfort & sustainability. This vision positions the Elks Club as a regenerative, vibrant success story for Boulder’s future.