In the Mile High City, market uncertainty continues to play a part in guiding the decisions of developers and investors alike. Faced with high interest rates and an ever-growing project pipeline, some sectors are experiencing more movement than others. While certain segments like speculative industrial projects have witnessed a slowdown, developments such as tenant buildouts, senior living, and horizontal infrastructure are gaining traction and presenting unique opportunities for continued growth and progress in the months ahead.

Refocusing on End-Users

As many speculative industrial projects continue to remain on pause, the sector has shifted its focus to build-to-suit prospects. Given the customized, tailored approach to these projects, they are more likely to attract both investors and developers who place their confidence in fulfilling end-user needs and creating spaces that support unique operational functions.

Although the demand for speculative remains, it is predicted that these projects will remain in the pipeline until interest rates decrease and the market stabilizes. Until this shift occurs, tenant buildouts and build-to-suit projects will dominate the sector within the greater Denver region.

Capitalizing on Senior Living Success

Significant shifts have also impacted current trends in the living sector. Specifically, senior living projects remain on the rise, as predicted proformas and residential demand provide stakeholders with confidence in their investments.

An example of an active, large-scale senior living project is The Reserve at Lone Tree in Lone Tree, Colorado. With nine stories and 323,000 SF, this expansive facility is set to bring an additional 208 senior living units to the community, including 25 memory care, 125 assisted living, and 60 independent living, in addition to ample amenity space and a below-grade parking garage. The project is slated for completion in the first quarter of 2025.

Diversifying Capabilities in Alternative Markets

Given the change in demand for specific project types, Brinkmann Constructors has taken this change of pace as an opportunity to strengthen our presence in other growing sectors. We have made investments to increase our market share of Medical, Retail, and Commercial type projects. The demand for these project types in Denver is still strong and with our repeat client base, we have seen significant traction in procuring more work in these market sectors.

Regardless of the various challenges present in Denver’s construction environment, the outlook remains resilient, as stakeholders find new ways to grow while navigating economic uncertainties. With the second quarter underway, prioritizing a proactive approach to strategic planning, market analysis, and risk management will help developers, investors, and general contractors set the scene for continued success.

About the author: Dan Feagans is the vice president of Brinkmann Constructors' Denver office. He has nearly two decades of construction management experience spanning multifamily, healthcare, retail, office and more.

Dan received a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Missouri-Rolla (now known as Missouri University of Science & Technology). He is a LEED Accredited Professional, has undergone extensive OSHA safety training, and is ICC 2012 certified.

Featured Image: The Reserve at Lone Tree rendering by OZ Architecture.