Colorado State University Spur Campus at the National Western Center

The Colorado State University (CSU) Spur Campus at the National Western Center in Denver is a pioneering educational hub comprising three distinct buildings: Vida, Terra, and Hydro. Each facility embodies a unique focus, collectively advancing CSU’s mission to integrate education, research, and community engagement.

Vida Building: Dedicated to animal and human health, Vida functions as a surgical center, theater, and teaching hospital for veterinarians and students. A notable feature is the expansive mural wall, a testament to the collaborative efforts in design and installation.

Terra Building: Emphasizing food and agriculture innovation, Terra boasts a high-end lobby that seamlessly blends design with functionality. The building houses agricultural research spaces, a food lab, a public teaching kitchen, vertical gardens, and rooftop greenhouses. A distinctive exterior portal showcasing an avocado seed was realized through meticulous design coordination over four months, incorporating custom waterproofing and assembly with intricate tile work.

Hydro Building: Focused on water usage and reclamation, Hydro encompasses numerous lab spaces and classrooms. Serving as a center for water-related discussions, it highlights the connections between water, food systems, and energy, offering hands-on water education for students and families.

Across all three buildings, the use of high-gloss polished concrete flooring enhances the aesthetic and functional appeal, contributing to the campus’s modern and sustainable design.

Collectively, the CSU Spur Campus serves as a year-round destination, integrating research, outreach, and education into immersive environments that inspire innovation with global impact.