Denver's Mayor Mike Johnston stepped into the spotlight at the Studio Loft of the Denver Performing Arts Complex, where honors were bestowed upon the standout contributions to the city's visual and architectural landscape at the 2025 Mayor's Design Awards. With an assembled crowd of over 200, 12 winners across nine categories took home awards, alongside nine honorable mentions, chosen from a pool of 27 nominations. The ceremony was capped with a new twist, a People's Choice Award decided by popular vote. Detailed information regarding this year's nominees and the full list of winners and honorable mentions can be found in the official announcement, according to the City and County of Denver.
In the category of Adaptive Reuse, which celebrates repurposed structures, York Street Yards emerged as the winner, with The Amp and BurnDown both receiving honorable mentions, as reported by the City and County of Denver. The Affordability, Existing Buildings award highlighted Mosaic Community Campus and Pancratia Hall Lofts, both aimed at income-restricted renovations, each earning a winning spot. The Affordability – New Construction saw Nest56 @Denargo Market secure the win with Thrive gathering an honorable mention.
Award winners in Community and Culture included projects like City Heights Residence Hall and Tears-McFarlane House, and Secret Garden Bar & Café, all acknowledged for their contribution to Denver's social fabric. Meanwhile, "A House of Prayer for All People" Project at Montview Church and Buell Public Media Center was honored with mentions. Economic Development, split into large and small scale, recognized the Ayden and Bruce Randolph Avenue Residences, respectively.
