Xan Creative

Process Gallery

Not Just a House, an Arthouse

The Arthouse residential units adjacent to the MCA-Denver are as contemporary and architecturally stimulating as the museum itself. Our clients had very particular ideas about the interior of their unit.

Dee and Jim have an extensive art collection and wanted their pieces to be the focal point of the house. Our job was to design a simple, neutral palette that highlighted the art. Some designers might shy away from such a directive, but we saw this as a creative challenge. We served as architect and created a custom space plan for all three levels, as the interior hadn’t been built out when we were hired. Out of twelve units, this residence has the only unique floor plans. Our design focused on non-traditional use of natural materials to create texture in walls, and a home management system for fully automated lighting to create a brilliant canvas for their art collection.

We commissioned a water feature and a modern fireplace that served as pieces of art. They’re not charging admission to enter their house, but our clients definitely feel their living space is their own personal art museum.

“We didn’t need to add an architect because Xan did everything.”
— Dee Chirafisi