Arapahoe Acres Englewood — Denver’s Hidden Mid-Century Modern Historic District

A Living Museum of Mid-Century Modern Architecture

Tucked into a quiet corner of Englewood, Colorado — just south of Hampden Avenue between Santa Fe Drive and South Broadway — sits one of the most architecturally significant neighborhoods in the American West. Arapahoe Acres is a 124-home subdivision that represents one of the purest concentrations of mid-century modern residential architecture anywhere in the United States.

Unlike the scattered MCM homes you’ll find in other Denver neighborhoods, Arapahoe Acres was designed as a cohesive architectural statement. Every home in the original development was designed or influenced by a single architect — Edward B. Hawkins — who set out to prove that modernist design principles could work for middle-class American families, not just wealthy patrons of high architecture.

In 1998, Arapahoe Acres became Colorado’s first residential neighborhood to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places — a recognition that cemented its status as a cultural landmark and established protections that help preserve its architectural character to this day.

The Vision of Edward B. Hawkins

Edward Hawkins wasn’t a household name like Frank Lloyd Wright or Richard Neutra, but his contribution to Colorado architecture was profound. Born in 1914, Hawkins studied architecture at the University of Colorado and was deeply influenced by the modernist movement — particularly the work of Wright, Mies van der Rohe, and the Bauhaus school.

After World War II, Hawkins saw an opportunity. The GI Bill was fueling a housing boom, and most developers were building conventional Cape Cods and ranch homes. Hawkins believed that modern design — with its emphasis on open floor plans, natural light, and integration with the landscape — could be delivered at a price point that average families could afford.

In 1949, he partnered with developer Edward Tauer to purchase land in what was then unincorporated Arapahoe County (now Englewood). Over the next eight years, Hawkins designed homes for the subdivision that embodied his modernist principles while remaining practical, buildable, and affordable.

Hawkins’ Design Principles

The homes of Arapahoe Acres share several distinctive characteristics that reflect Hawkins’ philosophy:

• Post-and-beam construction — exposed structural elements that create clean lines and open interior spaces
• Floor-to-ceiling windows — walls of glass that blur the boundary between indoors and outdoors
• Open floor plans — living, dining, and kitchen areas flowing together without walls, revolutionary for the 1950s
• Flat or low-pitched roofs — dramatic rooflines that emphasize horizontal lines and integration with the landscape
• Natural materials — brick, wood, and stone used in their natural state rather than painted or covered
• Indoor-outdoor connection — patios, courtyards, and gardens designed as extensions of living spaces
• Carports instead of garages — open, covered parking structures that preserved the home’s clean lines
• Varied designs — while sharing a design vocabulary, each home has a unique floor plan and expression. Hawkins designed over 30 distinct models, ensuring the neighborhood had variety within its unified aesthetic.

The Homes: What to Expect

Typical Home Characteristics

Arapahoe Acres homes were designed for post-war middle-class families, so they’re more modest in scale than what we typically cover in South Denver luxury guides — but their architectural significance and unique character give them an outsized appeal:

• Size: 900 to 2,200 square feet (most fall in the 1,100–1,600 range)
• Bedrooms: 2 to 4 (typically 3)
• Lots: 6,000 to 10,000 square feet — modest by South Denver standards but generous for the era
• Construction: Brick, wood, and glass — high-quality materials that have held up remarkably well
• Basements: Most homes have full basements, many of which have been finished to add living space
• Garages/Carports: Original carports remain on many homes; some have been enclosed (a modification that can be controversial in the historic district)

Architectural Styles Within Arapahoe Acres

While all homes share the mid-century modern DNA, Hawkins experimented with several sub-styles:

• The “Butterfly” roof homes — V-shaped rooflines that became one of MCM architecture’s most iconic forms. Several Arapahoe Acres homes feature this dramatic roofline.
• Flat-roof modernist — The most overtly “modern” homes in the neighborhood, with flat roofs, expansive glass, and cubic forms.
• Low-pitched gable — A more approachable modernism with gently sloped roofs that blend mid-century and ranch influences.
• Courtyard homes — Some designs incorporate interior courtyards that bring light and nature into the center of the home — a design element borrowed from desert modernism.

National Historic Register Status

Arapahoe Acres’ listing on the National Register of Historic Places in 1998 was a landmark moment — not just for the neighborhood, but for the recognition of mid-century modern architecture as historically significant. At the time, MCM homes were widely undervalued and frequently demolished in favor of newer construction.

What the Designation Means

• Recognition, not restriction: The National Register listing is primarily honorific. It does not impose federal restrictions on what homeowners can do with their properties.
• Local protections: The City of Englewood has adopted local historic district regulations that do provide additional oversight. Exterior modifications visible from the street — including additions, window replacements, and siding changes — require review by the Englewood Historic Preservation Commission.
• Tax benefits: Owners of contributing structures may be eligible for Colorado state historic preservation tax credits (up to 25% of qualified rehabilitation expenses) and potential federal tax incentives for income-producing historic properties.
• Property value impact: The historic designation has generally been positive for property values, as it protects the neighborhood’s character from incompatible development and attracts buyers who specifically seek MCM architecture.

Contributing vs. Non-Contributing Structures

Within the historic district, homes are classified as either contributing (retaining their original architectural character) or non-contributing (significantly altered). Contributing structures are subject to more scrutiny during the review process. As of recent surveys, the vast majority of Arapahoe Acres homes remain contributing structures — a proof of the community’s commitment to preservation.

Current Market & Pricing

Arapahoe Acres has seen significant price appreciation as mid-century modern architecture has experienced a cultural renaissance. Current market conditions:

• Typical price range: $500,000–$900,000
• Price per square foot: $350–$550 (premium to surrounding Englewood neighborhoods)
• Premium factors: Homes with original features intact (butterfly roofs, walls of glass, original fireplaces) command the highest prices. Sensitively updated kitchens and bathrooms that respect the MCM aesthetic also add value.
• Discount factors: Homes with incompatible modifications (vinyl siding over original materials, enclosed carports, replacement windows that don’t match the original style) sell at a discount.
• Inventory: Extremely limited. Only 5–10 homes typically sell per year in the entire neighborhood. Many homeowners are long-term residents or MCM enthusiasts who hold their properties for decades.

Value Compared to Other MCM Neighborhoods

Arapahoe Acres competes with a handful of other Denver-area MCM concentrations:

• Krisana Park (Denver) — another Hawkins-influenced neighborhood, without the historic designation. Similar prices.
• Harvey Park (Denver) — larger MCM neighborhood with more variety in quality. Generally lower prices ($400,000–$650,000).
• Cliff May Ranches (Long Beach, CA) — the closest national comparison. Prices are 2–3x higher due to California’s market, making Arapahoe Acres a relative bargain.

The Neighborhood Today

Location & Proximity

Arapahoe Acres’ location is one of its underappreciated strengths:

• Swedish Medical Center: Less than 1 mile — one of Colorado’s largest and most comprehensive hospitals is practically next door. This is a major convenience factor for residents and a draw for medical professionals.
• Downtown Englewood & CityCenter: 5 minutes — Englewood’s revitalized downtown offers restaurants, shops, and the RTD light rail station for car-free commutes to Denver.
• Downtown Denver: 15–20 minutes via Santa Fe Drive or Broadway
• Cherry Creek: 10–15 minutes
• DTC/Greenwood Village: 10 minutes via I-25
• Light Rail: The Englewood station on the E/H lines is about 5 minutes away, providing direct service to downtown Denver, the DTC, and other RTD stops.

Community Character

Arapahoe Acres attracts a distinctive mix of residents:

• Architecture enthusiasts who sought out the neighborhood specifically for its MCM homes
• Design professionals — architects, interior designers, and artists drawn to the aesthetic
• Long-term residents — some original or second-generation owners who have lived in the neighborhood for decades
• Medical professionals working at nearby Swedish Medical Center
• Young professionals and couples attracted by the unique character and relative affordability compared to Denver’s trendier neighborhoods

The neighborhood has an active Arapahoe Acres Historic Preservation Association that organizes community events, advocates for preservation, and helps homeowners navigate the historic review process. They host an annual home tour that draws MCM enthusiasts from across Colorado.

Schools

Arapahoe Acres is served by Englewood Schools, a smaller district that doesn’t carry the prestige of Cherry Creek or Douglas County districts. Key schools include:

• Clayton Elementary
• Englewood Middle School
• Englewood High School

Many families in the area opt for choice enrollment into neighboring districts or private schools. The proximity to Denver also opens up a wide range of private and charter school options.

Buying in Arapahoe Acres: What to Know

1. Embrace the Historic Character

If you’re buying in Arapahoe Acres, you’re buying into a preservation ethos. Plan to maintain and restore the home’s original character, not fight it. Buyers who want open-concept living, large picture windows, and unique architecture will love it. Buyers who want traditional finishes, large garages, or maximum square footage should look elsewhere.

2. Budget for Sensitive Renovations

Updating an MCM home while respecting its design intent costs more than a conventional renovation. You’ll want:

• A contractor experienced with mid-century homes (not all are)
• Windows that match the original proportions and mullion patterns
• Kitchen and bath designs that feel modern but compatible with the home’s aesthetic
• Familiarity with the historic review process for exterior changes

3. Inspect Thoroughly

Homes built in the 1950s can have issues that modern homes don’t:

• Flat roof maintenance — flat and low-slope roofs require more frequent attention than pitched roofs
• Original plumbing — cast iron and galvanized pipes may need replacement
• Electrical updates — original wiring may not meet modern demands
• Asbestos — common in insulation, flooring, and siding of 1950s homes. Professional testing is essential before any renovation.
• Foundation — Colorado’s expansive clay soils can cause movement in older homes. Look for signs of settling.

4. Understand the Review Process

Before planning any exterior modifications, consult with the Englewood Historic Preservation Commission. They can guide you on what requires review, what’s likely to be approved, and how to approach modifications in a historically sensitive way. Most homeowners find the process reasonable — the goal is compatibility, not freezing homes in amber.

5. Connect with the Community

The Arapahoe Acres preservation association is an invaluable resource. Current homeowners can share contractor recommendations, renovation experiences, and practical advice about living in a historic MCM home. Attend a home tour or community event before buying to get a feel for the neighborhood culture.

The MCM Revival and Arapahoe Acres’ Future

Mid-century modern architecture has experienced a dramatic cultural revival over the past two decades, driven by design media, television shows like Mad Men, and a growing appreciation for the clean lines, honest materials, and human-scaled design that define the style.

Arapahoe Acres has benefited enormously from this revival. Homes that sold for $150,000–$250,000 in the early 2000s now command $500,000–$900,000. The neighborhood’s historic designation has protected it from the teardown-and-rebuild trend that has consumed MCM homes in other Denver neighborhoods.

Looking ahead, Arapahoe Acres faces the same challenge as all historic MCM neighborhoods: balancing preservation with livability. Modern families need updated kitchens, efficient HVAC systems, and insulation that 1950s homes weren’t designed with. The most successful renovations in Arapahoe Acres find creative ways to add modern comfort without compromising the homes’ architectural integrity.

The neighborhood’s location near Swedish Medical Center, the light rail, and Englewood’s revitalizing downtown suggests that demand will remain strong. For buyers who appreciate architecture, history, and a truly unique home, Arapahoe Acres is one of South Denver’s most compelling destinations — a place where you don’t just buy a house, you become a steward of Colorado’s architectural heritage.

Curious about Arapahoe Acres or other historic neighborhoods in South Denver? Explore our South Denver neighborhood guides for listings, community profiles, and local insights.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Arapahoe Acres in Englewood?

Arapahoe Acres is a 124-home mid-century modern residential neighborhood in Englewood, Colorado, designed by architect Edward B. Hawkins between 1949 and 1957. It was the first residential neighborhood in Colorado to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places (1998) and features distinctive post-and-beam homes with floor-to-ceiling windows, open floor plans, and flat or low-pitched roofs.

How much do homes cost in Arapahoe Acres?

Homes in Arapahoe Acres typically sell between $500,000 and $900,000, with a price per square foot of $350–$550. Homes with well-preserved original features and sensitive updates command the highest prices. Only 5–10 homes sell per year in the neighborhood, making inventory extremely limited.

Can you renovate a home in Arapahoe Acres historic district?

Yes, you can renovate homes in Arapahoe Acres, but exterior modifications visible from the street require review by the Englewood Historic Preservation Commission. The goal is to ensure changes are compatible with the neighborhood’s mid-century modern character. Interior renovations generally do not require historic review. Many homeowners have successfully updated kitchens, bathrooms, and mechanical systems while preserving their home’s architectural integrity.