In the heart of Denver, Colorado, just across from Mile High Stadium, the Revival on Platte project is redefining multifamily construction. This 234,000-square-foot, eight-story, 200-unit apartment building isn’t just another addition to Denver’s skyline. It’s a trailblazer in leveraging vertical integration to streamline construction processes, reduce costs, and drive innovation.
A Fully Integrated Approach
Revival on Platte is more than a construction project; it’s a showcase of the power of Mortenson’s diversified business model, combining development, design, supply chain, manufacturing, and construction under one umbrella. Senior Project Manager Kim Petit describes it as a “shining example of what’s possible when vertical integration is fully utilized.”
At the heart of this approach is the use of prefabricated panels manufactured by BLUvera, a Mortenson subsidiary. These cold-formed stud panels, created at BLUvera’s factory in St. Paul, Minnesota, arrive on-site fully finished with integrated plumbing and ductwork, minimizing installation complexities and accelerating project timelines.
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA)
The DFMA methodology has transformed how the building is constructed. From the second-level concrete podium upwards, the entire structure is assembled using BLUvera’s prefinished panels. This innovative approach streamlines processes:
- Reduced On-Site Labor: Panels are ready to install, eliminating time-consuming MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) installations on-site.
- Simplified Connections: Instead of running long pipe systems, tradespeople make simple, pre-engineered connections, significantly speeding up work.
- Better Quality Control: Factory-built components ensure consistent quality and reduce construction errors.
As Senior Superintendent Klay Adair explains, “It moves faster because we are making simple connections between panels instead of running long runs of pipe. After the panels are installed, interior trades can move in immediately.”
Direct Procurement for Better Outcomes
In addition to panel manufacturing, the project utilizes BLU54 to directly procure essential items such as windows, lighting, balconies, stairs, railings, and interior finishes like bathroom fixtures and flooring. This direct collaboration with manufacturers enhances schedule predictability and reduces costs, reinforcing the project’s efficiency and value-driven focus.
Innovative Façade Solutions
The Revival on Platte’s exterior also exemplifies innovation. The prefabricated panels arrive on-site fully finished, including the stucco EIFS assembly and a NewBrick product, an advanced façade solution that combines durability with aesthetic appeal.
A Model for the Future of Multifamily Construction
Slated for completion in Q1 2025, Revival on Platte is more than a project—it’s a proof of concept for the future of construction. By challenging traditional methods and embracing cutting-edge vertical integration, the project delivers not only a building but also a roadmap for how the industry can evolve.
As construction progresses, the Revival on Platte stands as a testament to the possibilities of combining expertise, innovation, and a singular vision to redefine industry standards and inspire future developments.
