New Apartments and Retail Space Proposed for Denver’s RiNo Neighborhood

Denver’s RiNo neighborhood may soon be home to new apartments and retail space. Steele Properties, a Denver-based developer, submitted plans in October 2024 for a 60,000 sq. ft. 40-unit apartment building at the Walnut and Downing Street intersection. A spokesperson for Steele Properties declined to comment, citing the early stages of development.

An affiliate of the Denver-based Elevation Group owns the land at 3707 Walnut Street. The company purchased this land, a 13,000 sq. ft. Parcel, in 2017 for $1.2 million. Steele Properties hopes to buy the land in November 2025, pending its ability to secure a tax credit for developers focusing on building affordable housing.

According to Steele Properties’ plans, the six-story building will have 5,000 sq. ft. of amenity or retail space on the first floor. This property would include 12 parking spaces, owing to its proximity to the 38th and Blake light-rail station. Steele Properties operates in 20 states, with 90 holdings and 9,000 properties. This company specializes in acquiring and rehabbing apartment buildings, with Colorado holdings from Greeley to Trinidad. Their portfolio is growing to add housing from more communities.

Because plans for this development are new, there are few details about the amenities these apartments may offer. However, there are similar buildings from the same developer that may provide some insight. Existing developments in the same or nearby neighborhoods can also offer helpful insights into what prospective residents can expect. These properties also give prospective residents a variety of alternatives to consider.

Aurora Homes is near CU Anschutz Medical Center, as well as shopping and dining. This development includes 1 and 2-bedroom garden-style homes with patios, on 3.73 acres.

During a 2020 renovation, the community received new roofs, new siding, updated exterior lighting, and sidewalk, parking, and common area improvements. Some of the community amenity updates included a renovated leasing office, community room and kitchen, and an updated laundry facility, all of which offer greater convenience for residents.

Denver Gardens offers access to grocery stores, shopping, and dining. The units are all 1-bedroom, with energy-efficient appliances. Some of the amenities include intercoms, a community area, a computer lab, an outdoor patio area, and a community garden. Energy-efficient upgrades from 2014 include solar panels.

Glennpark Village is close to shopping and dining opportunities. This development features contemporary 2 and 3-bedroom townhomes with structural renovations as recently as 2008. This community’s grounds feature beautiful landscaping that encourages residents and their guests to enjoy the outdoors.

Weatherstone Apartments is on 3.25 acres and near the Town Center at Aurora with shopping and dining. The apartments have 1-3 bedrooms, all with air conditioning. Some of the amenities available include a community room with a kitchen, a basketball court, playgrounds, and picnic areas. The common amenities help create a strong sense of community.

Waterford RiNo Apartments are close to great dining and entertainment options, including events at Coors Field. Controlled access to the community offers more convenience and privacy. The floor plans offer studio to 2-bedroom units for better flexibility. The kitchens include energy-efficient stainless steel appliances, islands, and granite countertops. Bedrooms have walk-in closets and the bathrooms also have granite countertops. Some of the community amenities include a pool and pet area.

The Deveraux has studio to 2-bedroom units, with up to 2 baths. Appliances in each unit include a washer and dryer, dishwasher, microwave, and garbage disposal. Ceiling fans offer better air circulation, with each home having a patio or balcony. A pool and fitness center are perfect for your recreational needs. You can also enjoy a grilling area for gatherings with friends or socializing with your neighbors.

Villas has spacious 3-bedroom, 3-bathroom furnished units ideal for a quick move-in. There is patio space in each villa so you can spend time outside for some quiet time. In-unit laundry makes your laundry days more convenient.

Block 32 at RiNo has studios, 1, and 2-bedroom units with 14’ ceilings in select units. There are spacious walk-in closets, concrete or plank-wood flooring, and balconies or patios in some units. A dog spa makes it easy to pamper your furry friend. Artistic studio space helps creatively-minded residents express themselves. An on-site guest suite makes this building extra inviting for anyone who likes to have company over.