The Exchange

With a vision to bring the people of Fort Collins together through a shared community plaza, RVi (formerly Russell + Mills Studio) collaborated with Brinkman Development to create a space where restaurants, services, and entertainment intertwine authentically.

GOALS

Previously a dilapidated and underutilized parking lot, The Exchange was designed to be a destination location in Downtown Fort Collins that features restaurants, bars, shops, and open green space. Our work aimed to breathe new life into the site by creating a family-friendly space where people can eat, drink, and shop locally while spending time outdoors on the green.

OUTCOMES

Through design and entitlement services, our team led the development of The Exchange’s distinctive space. We used shipping containers to create intimate and enclosed spaces that reflected the personality of Fort Collins and added a unique dimension to the downtown area, creating a central gathering space from a former parking area. The space also features outdoor patio spaces to allow for year-round events and entertainment for both locals and tourists.

Using thoughtful placemaking strategies, we integrated custom benches, seating, and a common consumption area in the design to encourage casual gathering and enjoyment of the variety of food and drink offerings served by local businesses. By bringing together inspired indoor and outdoor elements, The Exchange has become a vibrant central gathering place in Old Town Fort Collins that highlights the unique historical sense of place, while fostering a lively environment for kids to play, friends to gather, and dogs to unwind for generations to come.