Business Details
36 Years
experience
Explore Denver's Architectural Legacy
Founded in 1990, we have dedicated over three decades to fostering a deeper understanding of architecture's role in shaping Denver's urban landscape. Our organization bridges architecture, education, and community-building through diverse programs that engage residents, professionals, and visitors alike. We prioritize equitable access to architectural education, ensuring our initiatives reflect diverse voices and perspectives. Our offerings include guided tours of historic and contemporary sites, hard hat tours of active construction projects, audio tours for self-paced exploration, and lecture series featuring industry experts.With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, we actively integrate these principles into all aspects of our programming and operations. Our team combines expertise in architecture, urban planning, social work, and community engagement to create meaningful experiences that highlight Denver's architectural heritage and future possibilities. Through partnerships with local institutions and professionals, we continue to expand our impact in preserving and celebrating the built environment.
Services
Walking Tours
Hard Hat Tours
Audio Tours
Lecture Series
Membership Programs
Educational Events
Details
- Year established: 1990
Highlights and features
- We have championed architectural education since 1990 with expert-led programs
- Our tours provide exclusive access to active construction sites and historic landmarks
- We offer self-guided audio tours for flexible exploration of Denver's neighborhoods
- Our programming emphasizes diversity, equity, and inclusion in architectural discourse
- We connect the public with industry professionals through specialized lecture series
Services
Walking Tours
Explore Denver's architectural heritage through expert-led walking tours of historic neighborhoods and significant landmarks. These year-round tours provide in-depth insights into the city's built environment. Participants experience both well-known and hidden architectural gems across Denver's diverse neighborhoods.
Hard Hat Tours
Gain exclusive behind-the-scenes access to Denver's most exciting construction projects through member-only hard hat tours. Led by industry professionals, these tours showcase the city's evolving skyline. Participants observe active building processes and learn about innovative construction techniques shaping Denver's future.
Audio Tours
Experience Denver's architectural history through self-paced audio tours covering Five Points, Civic Center, and Downtown neighborhoods. These digital tours combine historical context with modern perspectives. Users can explore at their own pace using mobile devices while discovering the city's architectural evolution.
Lecture Series
Attend specialized lectures featuring architects, historians, and urban planners discussing Denver's built environment. These events provide deeper understanding of architectural trends and urban development. Topics range from historic preservation to contemporary design challenges facing the city.
Membership Programs
Join as a member to access exclusive architectural experiences and support preservation efforts. Membership benefits include priority registration for events and special tour opportunities. Members help sustain our mission of promoting architectural appreciation and community engagement across Denver.
People
Meg Touborg
President & CEO
Architecture and design leader with experience in education and business development. Former CU Denver faculty and founder of a boutique marketing agency serving design firms. Advocates for adaptive reuse and serves on preservation boards.
Alyssa Hornyak
Program Manager
Social work professional with background in program coordination and youth development. Combines social work expertise with passion for arts and cultural programming. Holds degrees from NYU and University of Denver.
Victoria Stutesman
Program and Membership Coordinator
Community engagement specialist with experience in program management and diversity initiatives. Former Los Angeles resident with focus on equitable access to architectural resources. Organizational expert committed to inclusive urban development.
Kurt Basford
Board Chair
Principal at Stantec with leadership experience in architectural and engineering projects. Provides strategic guidance for the foundation's programming and organizational development.
Kaci Taylor
DEIA Officer
Architect and founder of THE5WH focused on diversity, equity, and inclusion in design. Leads foundation's efforts to integrate DEIA principles into all aspects of programming and operations.
Questions
What types of architectural tours do you offer?
We offer walking tours of historic neighborhoods, hard hat tours of active construction sites, and self-guided audio tours exploring Denver's architectural heritage.
Are your programs accessible to the general public?
Our walking tours and audio tours are open to the public, while hard hat tours require membership for exclusive behind-the-scenes access to construction projects.
How does DAF promote architectural education?
We provide educational experiences through guided tours, lecture series, and community programs that highlight Denver's architectural history and future development.
What is your organization's commitment to diversity?
We center diversity, equity, and inclusion in all programming, ensuring representation of diverse voices and perspectives in architectural discourse and community engagement.
Can I access your programs online?
Our audio tours and virtual exhibitions provide digital access to architectural content, while most programs emphasize in-person exploration of Denver's built environment.
