New Developments Transforming Golden, CO
Here in Golden, Colorado we’re seeing a boom in development the likes of which I haven’t seen in years as a local realtor. From mixed‐use districts to upscale residential subdivisions, the transformation is real—and it’s changing how people live, work, and invest here. I thought I’d share what I’m seeing, especially spotlighting two major projects (Clayworks and AVERE on South Golden), and what this means for the market, for neighborhoods, and for buyers and investors.
Clayworks: Reimagining the Heart of Golden
If you haven’t driven by the old CoorsTek industrial site near 9th Street and Washington Avenue recently, set aside time. Clayworks is one of the most ambitious mixed‐use projects Golden has embarked on. Mile High CRE+4Clayworks+4Tryba Architects+4
What it is:
Over 12+ acres of land owned by the Coors family since the 1880s, being redeveloped into a new, vibrant downtown district. Clayworks+1
A mix of office space, retail, residences (including mixed income), hospitality (boutique hotel), restaurants and gathering places. Clayworks+2AC Development+2
High ambitions for sustainability and design: the first major building (Building B3, aka 800 Ford St) is a 4-story office building (with below-grade parking), ground floor restaurants, aiming for LEED-Gold/Zero, etc., solar array, geothermal wells. Mile High CRE
Open, people-friendly public plazas, trails, streetscapes—to connect Clayworks to downtown and to nature. Tryba Architects+2Clayworks+2
Why it matters:
It is literally knitting back into downtown what had been an industrial “blank spot” and replacing underutilized industrial uses with uses that support daily life: living, working, dining, gathering. CBS News+1
It sets a tone for future development in Golden: high quality architecture, strong public realm, sustainability, walkability.
For buyers and renters: it will mean more options to live closer to amenities, with newer, modern units, office space near home, less commuting.
AVERE on South Golden Road: New Residential Scale
Another big one is AVERE on South Golden Road. This one is more residential / mixed use than Clayworks, but it’s huge in terms of filling demand for housing. REVA Development Partners, LLC
Key features:
353 units total: 285 apartment units in two mixed-use buildings plus 68 townhomes. REVA Development Partners, LLC
About 20,000 sq ft of retail space along South Golden Road. Amenities like pool, fitness, coworking, green space, gathering areas are part of the plan. REVA Development Partners, LLC
Located just east of the city limits, on ~14.4 acres. REVA Development Partners, LLC
Scheduled to break ground in late 2024. REVA Development Partners, LLC
What this brings:
More housing stock in Golden where supply has been tight, especially for renters. Golden hasn’t had an abundance of new multifamily development despite high demand. AVERE helps address that. REVA Development Partners, LLC
The inclusion of townhomes gives people an alternative to traditional single family home ownership in the $1M+ sector. For many buyers or renters, that middle ground is very appealing.
The retail front will help serve residents not just of AVERE but the surrounding areas—more walkable commercial amenities mean less driving, more local business opportunities.
Other Housing & Subdivision Developments
It’s not only these big mixed-use and multifamily projects. There are also residential subdivisions coming online or selling quickly:
The Manors Collection at Golden Overlook by New Home Co. is a new single-family home community up in the hills; 3-5 bedrooms, 2-3.5 bathrooms, pricing starting in the low $800,000s, depending on plan. newhomeco.com
The Golden Overlook Subdivision Development (same general area) is moving ahead: 92 single family lots that were approved long ago but are now under buildout. guidinggolden.com
Luxury homes are being built in gated or view-rich neighborhoods, like Arcadian West. The price tags are high (often $1.8M-2M+), but the quality is luxury, the views are amazing, and demand is strong for buyers who want style + scenic setting + proximity. Work Shop Colorado
The Big Picture: What’s Driving It
As a realtor, I see a combination of forces creating this surge.
Demand for living in premium locations — Golden has always been desirable for its mountain access, small-town feel, outdoor recreation, proximity to Denver. More people want to live here, not just visit.
Supply constraints — In many parts of Golden, there simply hasn’t been enough new housing, especially modern rental units, townhomes, or for sale product in certain price tiers. Projects like AVERE help.
Desire for walkability, mixed use, sustainability — Modern buyers (and renters) are increasingly asking for more than just a house: they want amenities, shorter commutes, places to walk or bike, green space, etc. Developments like Clayworks are built for that.
Developer confidence & zoning / approvals — Projects like Clayworks required major planning, re-zoning (PUDs), coordinating with the city, multiple community meetings, etc. That signals the city is open to growth and has processes in place. guidinggolden.com+1
Investment interest — Land parcels along South Golden Road are being eyed, large housing developments are in the pipeline, prices are high enough to make projects financially viable.
What This Means for Buyers, Investors & Neighborhoods
Prices will continue upward pressure — As new developments succeed and more amenity-rich housing hits the market, older homes with less convenience may feel more dated, and buyers will start to expect more.
More choices — For renters, there will be newer apartments with amenities. For buyers, townhomes, luxury single family homes, different neighborhoods.
Neighborhood transitions — Areas around these big projects will evolve: more traffic, more retail/commercial, possibly changes in the character. Some residents will welcome more options; others may be concerned about density, congestion, or preserving views / nature.
Timing matters — Getting in early (on a new development or now while lots are still available) may offer better pricing, more customization. Waiting too long might mean paying a premium or having fewer choices.
Infrastructure & services will be key — As density rises, so will demands on roads, parking, schools, utilities. Developers and the city must plan accordingly; buyers should think about long-term livability, not just flashy finishes.
From My Perspective: Real Opportunities & Things to Watch
From where I sit, some of the most exciting opportunities are:
Properties close to Clayworks: proximity will carry value, especially as Clayworks brings offices, retail, and public spaces.
Mixed-use parcels along South Golden Road: that corridor is heating up; visibility, traffic counts make sites here valuable.
Townhomes/new single-family subdivisions at the edge of Golden; people want views + space + modern features.
Things I’m keeping an eye on / cautious about:
How traffic and parking are addressed. Big mixed-use and multifamily projects can strain local infrastructure if not well planned.
How the city handles growth: maintaining Golden’s charm while allowing for denser, more urban development.
Affordable or attainable housing. As luxury and high-end homes proliferate, will there still be options for middle income folks, young families, essential workers?
Final Thoughts
Golden is no longer just “that great mountain town west of Denver” in a static sort of way. It’s evolving, morphing, expanding—but in many ways (especially with Clayworks) doing so with intention: sustainable design, mixed uses, preserving history, connecting people to nature. For buyers, investors, renters, this is a rare moment to be part of that evolution. If you're considering buying or investing here, let's walk through what’s coming, what’s approved vs. still just ideas, and how that might impact value, lifestyle, and long-term growth. Golden’s future is being built now—and it’s exciting.