DENVER — Larimer Square is the heartbeat of creativity and charm; home to one of a kind shops and some of the best restaurants in the city, a main attraction now on the market.
Jeff Hermanson purchased the property in 1993 and after 27 years, he wrote that it’s time to pass the torch.
“I’m proud of what I’ve helped to create here, and now the time has come for a new generation to take the helm,” Hermanson wrote.
Larimer Square is known for its rich history and historic architecture. It’s part of what attracted Robb Horen, the owner of Savvy Dog. He opened his business 14 years ago on the vibrant block.
“I get so many returning customers that come in from around the country and internationally that say that’s part of their Denver experience,” Horen said.
In 1965, Dana Crawford pioneered the restoration of Larimer Square.
“Every day was a crisis and it was very difficult to get it financed,” Crawford said.
She compared the block to “Skid Row,” and recalled the awful smell when she first took a stroll down the street. But underneath it all, she says she saw the history etched into the buildings. She says her inspiration came from her time in Boston.
Crawford spent 22 years restoring Larimer Square and bringing her vision to life.
“Really influenced preservation across America,” she said.
Crawford sold the property in 1986 to a real estate company and in 1993, Jeff Hermanson purchased Larimer Square, but he says it’s time to start a new chapter.
“Over the past three years, Urban Villages has done a remarkable job of ensuring Larimer Square remains the heart and soul of our vibrant city. With their partnership, we have set the block up for continued long-term success, and I couldn’t ask for more. It’s been a great run, and now I’m looking ahead”
-Hermanson
“It was new news to everybody,” Horen said.
Little is known about the next owner or the property price tag.
“I don’t know who is buying it but it’s somebody from out of town,” Crawford said.
In a city buzzing with life -- the word on the street, “There’s no place like Larimer.”
Crawford hopes the next owner continues to honor the originality, creativity and history of Larimer Square.
The Denver Landmark Committee says Larimer Square is a historic district and would not change despite the buyers.
