PROVINCE + LOTUS /
BOULDER, CO

Just steps away from the University of Colorado at Boulder, the Province and Lotus are both student living projects that met/gal worked on simultaneously. Both designs and art collections blend colorful hues and eclectic patterns with industrial tones creating a striking contrast in the design.

The Province, a 50-year-old defunct church, was reconstructed and most recently renovated to attract college students. The most noticeable feature is the vibrant stained glass within the clubhouse. Rather than downplay this architectural feature, the designer let it inform the design. Ultimately, it was the catalyst for the thoughtful color-blocking seen throughout the space, as well as the art commissions and selections. For instance, the "Color Series 54: Tiny Fire Inside An Emerald" by Jessica Poundstone that hangs in the Lotus' lobby provides a color experience that is both immersive and meditative. While other works like Emily Cano’s digital illustrations printed on aluminum bring in historical monuments, like the Boulder County courthouses. As with any student housing project, it is critical to incorporate local elements to solidify these students' sense of belonging in their new home away from home.

During initial art selections, the restricted amount of wall space in both former complexes posed some obstacles. To overcome this barrier, the artwork was chosen and commissioned to have a strong connection with the color palette while also creating intentional moments of pause in each piece. To include artwork in areas that couldn't hang, our team utilized innovative methods, like a decorative easel. Using these creative methods and vibrant pieces, we were able to add life and energy to the common areas, while also bringing in elements of the surrounding city.