In the heart of Denver's historic East 7th Avenue neighborhood, a remarkable transformation has taken place. A 1950s eyesore has been replaced by a stunning Mediterranean-style villa, a testament to the vision and craftsmanship of local architect Andrew Sumners. This story is not just about a new build, but a deep-rooted connection to the past, a personal journey, and a commitment to preserving the character of a beloved neighborhood.
A Childhood Dream Realized
For Andrew Sumners, the purchase and transformation of 1650 E. Seventh Ave. was a childhood dream come true. Growing up in the neighborhood, he always envisioned tearing down the yellow eyesore and rebuilding something that would blend seamlessly with the historic character of the area. Little did he know that one day, he would have the opportunity to make that dream a reality.
"As a kid, I always dreamed of tearing it down for my grandmother," Sumners reminisced. "It's a privilege to be able to contribute to the neighborhood's fabric and leave a positive mark."
A Labor of Love and Craftsmanship
The seven-bedroom, seven-bath villa is a masterpiece of handcrafted materials and modernist influences. Sumners' love for architecture is evident in every detail, from the custom iron shield front door to the 8-foot blond mahogany interior doors, all imported from Mexico. The house boasts a New Hampshire slate roof, a 100-year investment that Sumners believes adds beauty and protection to the home.
"I love slate roofs. They're timeless and offer a level of durability that few other materials can match."
Preserving Historic Character
Building in the East 7th Avenue Historic District presented unique challenges. Sumners had to work closely with the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission, ensuring that every exterior detail was approved before construction. This strict review process meant that once approved, no changes to the exterior design were allowed.
"When you design this way, you have to think differently. The exterior design is set in stone, and you have to work within that framework. It's a challenge, but it also forces you to be creative and think outside the box."
Collaboration and Vision
Sumners credits architect Aaron Hodgin for helping shape his vision and navigate the bureaucratic process. Together, they spent countless hours walking the neighborhood, studying the houses, and collaborating on ideas that would both respect the historic context and push the design forward. This collaborative approach led to the current layout of the mansion, a design that Sumners is proud to call his own.
"Aaron's contributions were immense. His expertise and fresh perspective were invaluable in bringing my vision to life."
A Home for All Seasons
One of the unique aspects of the villa is its flexibility. Sumners designed it to accommodate various residents, from couples seeking comfort to multigenerational families. He remembers the neighborhood when it was full of kids and hopes to see that vitality return. The home's ability to adapt to different lifestyles is a testament to Sumners' thoughtful design approach.
"I wanted to create a home that would stand the test of time and be a welcoming space for families to create lasting memories."
A Masterpiece for the Ages
Listing broker Ann Atkinson describes the home as a masterpiece, a flexible and high-quality space that can accommodate intimate gatherings or large events. It's a sentiment shared by Sumners, who hopes the new owners will fill the home with life and make it their forever home.
"It's been a labor of love, and I'm proud to have played a part in preserving and enhancing the character of this historic neighborhood."
This story is a reminder that architecture is not just about buildings; it's about the people, the history, and the connections that make a place unique. Andrew Sumners' villa is a beautiful addition to Denver's East 7th Avenue, a testament to his vision, craftsmanship, and love for his community.
