The future of the building that once housed downtown Denver’s iconic jazz club El Chapultepec, known as “The Pec,” is uncertain as a new design proposal was recently denied by the city’s Lower Downtown Design Review Commission. After facing backlash for original plans to demolish the structure, the developer, Montfort Companies, collaborated with Historic Denver and proposed a new design that incorporated the building’s historic elements while adding a contemporary touch.
The proposed design featured a glass silhouette of The Pec, along with the preservation of the brick corner façade and vintage neon sign. However, the commission raised concerns about the amount of demolition proposed and the size of the rooftop extension connecting the building to the adjacent Giggling Grizzly bar. Despite support from Historic Denver, Councilmember Chris Hinds, and the LoDo District Inc., the commission ultimately found that the design did not meet the historic design standards of the neighborhood.
With the future of The Pec still up in the air, Montfort Companies, led by Kenneth Montfort, remains committed to restoring the building, despite facing delays and high costs. The jazz club, which hosted renowned artists and celebrities over the years, holds a significant place in Denver’s history. While the latest design proposal may have been denied, there is a possibility for the project to move forward with modifications to address the commission’s concerns.
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Photo credit denvergazette.com
