Welcome to the Country Club historic neighborhood, a hidden gem in the heart of Denver. Here you’ll find a breathtaking canopy of century-old American elms gracefully shading the landscape, draping over tiled rooftops and broad parkways, creating a vision of natural beauty. This cherished community boasts a fusion of architectural magnificence and lush scenery, setting it apart as one of Denver's most picturesque locations.
Crafted with care and elegance, the Spanish gateways that guard the entrances exude a sense of tranquility, preserving the rural ambiance of the quiet streets beyond. The architectural marvels that grace this area, including the homes and parkways, bear the marks of the renowned architects William and Arthur Fisher. Inspired by Arthur's voyages through southern Europe, their refined Mediterranean designs bestow a touch of Old World charm upon the neighborhood.
Though small, with just 380 homes, Country Club offers an atmosphere reminiscent of the English countryside. Its winding, curved streets and expansive lawns remain unbroken by alleys or sidewalks, drawing you into a world of graceful beauty. The homes, situated on generous lots, lend a sense of space and openness to the area. The Country Club Historic District, a part of the neighborhood, adds to its allure, providing a glimpse into its rich historical significance. As you can see, the appeal of this sought-after neighborhood never ends, but owning a piece of this illustrious real estate comes with limitations. Those who purchase homes in the Country Club's historic area must restore the houses according to their original architecture and cannot tear them down to build new ones.
A brief history of Country Club
Denver’s population rose in the 20th Century, and its economic stability paved the way for an expansion. This era of growth and renewal in the city inspired transformations of the city with parks, land markets, parkways, and revitalization of structures suffering from neglect. A group of visionaries used this opportunity to create The Denver Country Club, making their dream of a prestigious neighborhood within the city’s heart come to fruition. Thus, the enchanting Historic Country Club emerged from 400 acres of unused farmland to become one of Denver's most elegant and sought-after residential neighborhoods.
The neighborhood's development began with Park Club Place, the first portion, in 1905. The second, Country Club Place, came in 1906, with Country Club Annex following in 1924, while this historic neighborhood's last piece came with Park Lane Square in 1926. At the helm of the Fourth Avenue Realty Company's designs was William E. Fisher, whose inspiration from Frederick Law Olmstead brought landscaped parkways to life, accentuating the neighborhood's defining charm. Many spots, including the original entrance to the Country Club, stand as a testament to Fisher's vision. The district, fondly nicknamed the "Spanish Suburb," showcases the finest examples of early 20th-century architectural styles, such as the Denver Square and Mediterranean Revivals.
The significance of the Country Club neighborhood was officially recognized in 1979 when the western portion was listed in the National Register of Historic Places. Further, in 1990, the Country Club Historic District was designated as a Landmark District, comprising 380 residences primarily constructed between 1902 and 1945. Its historical, architectural, and geographical importance secured its status as a Landmark district, safeguarding its rich architectural heritage and requiring approval from the Commission for any proposed changes.
In a league of its own, the Historic Country Club District possesses an unrivaled combination of beauty, grandeur, historic preservation, and easy access to the now upscale Cherry Creek Shopping District and Downtown Denver. It remains a prime destination for those seeking a truly exceptional place to call home. Here are some of the finest historic homes in the Country Club neighborhood.
Country Club’s Four Subdivisions, Block by Block
The district began with a land deal. In 1902 the Denver Country Club, formerly the Overland Park Club, bought 120 acres along Cherry Creek, and the same day its organizers incorporated the Fourth Avenue Realty Company and bought the land to the north for housing. That land was filed as four subdivisions, and each still looks a little different from the street.
Filed 1905 and 1907
Park Club Place
The first section to be built out. Low brick gateways mark it along Fourth Avenue, and streets have tree lawns, detached sidewalks and raised front yards. Most houses sit on 50-foot-wide lots.
Filed 1906
Country Club Place
William E. Fisher’s original design and the first section planned. Large Mission-style gateways stand on Fourth Avenue, and the parkways have landscaped medians. Large houses sit on large lots with generous setbacks.
Amended 1924 to 1927
Country Club Annex
East of Country Club Place, with a streetscape like Park Club Place but larger houses on larger lots. It is the only section with no gateways.
Filed 1926
Park Lane Square
North of Fourth Avenue and sometimes called New Country Club. Narrow, curving streets with no sidewalks and brick gateways on its west, north and east edges.
Source: City and County of Denver, Landmark Preservation Commission, Design Guidelines for Country Club Historic District.
Sidewalks and alleys vary by section. The no-sidewalk, curving-street character belongs to Park Lane Square. Most of the district south of Fourth Avenue has tree lawns and detached sidewalks, and only some blocks have alleys, which is why many homes have driveways from the street. The district generally developed from west to east, so Denver Squares cluster in the western part, while later revival styles fill the east.
Source: City and County of Denver, Design Guidelines for Country Club Historic District.
The City credits many of the homes to Fisher and Fisher, Benedict, Biscoe, Gove and Walsh, and Varian and Sterner. For a closer look at the styles, see our guide to Country Club architecture, or browse current Country Club Historic District homes for sale.
1433 E 7th Avenue
Nestled along the esteemed 7th Avenue, this exquisite Tudor Mansion, subtly infused with craftsman influences, underwent an extensive remodel in 2021-2022; now on an elevated lot adorned with refreshed landscaping, majestic mature trees, and a secluded yard featuring a charming fire pit. Basking in a sun-drenched southerly exposure, the home boasts magnificent large double-hung windows and beveled glass French doors that allow natural light to fill the house.
Step into the custom, state-of-the-art kitchen, a culinary haven boasting custom-designed cabinets, an induction cooktop, double ovens, a new subzero refrigerator, a built-in coffee maker, quartzite countertops, and backsplashes. The primary suite has custom built-ins and a generously sized closet thoughtfully connected to the laundry room.
Prepare to indulge in the luxurious new primary bath, where a wet room houses a lavish shower and a relaxing soaking tub, complemented by two elegant vanities. With four additional bedrooms, three remodeled bathrooms, a delightful third-floor living room, and a versatile office/play area, every household member finds their perfect space. New LED light fixtures throughout the home illuminate the ambiance with modernity.
Descend to the basement, revealing a welcoming family room, a utility room, and ample storage options. The heated, oversize two-car garage includes a convenient level two charger. In contrast, the studio above the garage presents an ideal remote work setup with a south-facing balcony to bask in natural light and inspiration.
738 N Humboldt Street
This impressive residence boasts six bedrooms and five baths, situated on an elevated lot, gracefully positioned within one of Denver's most sought-after blocks in the esteemed 7th Avenue/North Country Club neighborhood. When you arrive, a generous front porch welcomes you, and you'll be enchanted by the fully remodeled interior, featuring exquisite hardwood floors and an open, airy layout. The heart of the home is the Chef's kitchen, meticulously renovated with marble countertops and stainless steel appliances seamlessly flowing into the family room.
The second floor unveils comfort with three bedrooms, two full baths, and a luxurious primary suite flaunting a spacious walk-in closet. Convenience reigns with a well-appointed laundry room on this level. Ascend to the third floor, where two more bedrooms and a complete bathroom offer versatile spaces to suit your needs. The basement delights with a finished bedroom boasting egress and a recreational room.
Beyond the interiors, step into a private backyard adorned with a stamped concrete patio, providing an ideal space for relaxation and entertainment. A bonus awaits in the form of an oversized three-car garage, offering ample storage and convenience. Enjoy the prime location close to Cheesman Park, with the benefit of being just a short stroll away from The Botanic Gardens, alongside many fantastic restaurants and shopping options in Cherry Creek.
What Landmark Status Means When You Own Here
Denver designated Country Club a Landmark District in 1990, after the western half was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979. The designation protects the district through design and demolition review by the Landmark Preservation Commission. Here is how that review works today.
Check whether review applies. Landmark Preservation reviews exterior projects that need a building or zoning permit, plus all curb cut and encroachment permit applications.
Ask about quick review. The City offers a separate quick review application and checklist alongside the full design review application.
Bring big projects to the neighborhood first. For new primary houses, tandem houses and rooftop additions, including pop-tops, in a district whose registered neighborhood organization has completed design review training, applicants must present to that organization before submitting to the Commission.
Get a Certificate of Appropriateness. Approved projects receive a Certificate of Appropriateness, applied for through the City’s e-permits system.
Source: City and County of Denver, Landmark Preservation design review and application pages (at the time of writing).
Can you tear down a house here? Demolition of most structures in a historic district requires review, and often a public hearing, by the Landmark Preservation Commission, and the City notes that demolition applications get close examination. Garages and other accessory structures are typically reviewed by staff.
Source: City and County of Denver, Demolition Review for Landmarks and Historic District Properties (at the time of writing).
20%
state income tax credit on qualified rehabilitation costs for owner-occupied historic homes
$100,000
maximum credit per property, used over a ten-year period
$5,000
rehabilitation costs must exceed this amount to qualify
Source: City and County of Denver, State Historic Preservation Income Tax Credits (at the time of writing). This is general information, not tax advice.
Timing matters for the credit. In Denver, owner-occupied homes apply through Denver Landmark Preservation, the Part 1 application must be submitted before construction is finished, and the whole project, including work that does not qualify, must meet the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation.
Are you ready to find your new home?
If you’re interested in historic homes in the Denver Country Club neighborhood, now is a great time to consult a Denver real estate agent. Learn the best time to sell a house in Colorado and explore homes for sale in Denver Country Club, a premier area of the Country Club Neighborhood Denver.
If you’re interested in finding your perfect home in the historic Country Club neighborhood or want to search for homes for sale in Country Club, contact local luxury experts Trish and Maggie Team today.
*1433 E 7th Avenue, Header photo courtesy of Zillow
Buying a Historic Home in Country Club: Questions to Ask
Landmark status shapes what you can change after you close, so we cover these questions with every Country Club buyer before an offer goes in.
- Which of the four subdivisions is the house in? Lot widths, sidewalks, gateways and setbacks differ, and so does what the guidelines expect.
- Did past exterior work receive a Certificate of Appropriateness? Ask the seller for approvals and permits.
- Where would an addition or garage go? The district guidelines favor additions at the rear or side and garages set back from the front of the house.
- Is there an alley? Without one, garage access needs a driveway, and new curb cuts go through Landmark review.
- Will your planned renovation qualify for the state tax credit? Apply before construction is finished.
Sources: City and County of Denver, Design Guidelines for Country Club Historic District; Landmark Preservation design review and tax credit pages.
More on Country Club and Nearby Historic Districts
- Neighborhood spotlight: everyday life in Country Club
- Why luxury buyers choose Country Club
- Luxury living in Country Club
- 7th Avenue Historic District guide
- Living on the 7th Avenue Parkway
- Denver’s historic homes and modern updates
- Cherry Creek neighborhood guide
- Congress Park neighborhood guide
- Polo Club vs. Cherry Creek vs. Belcaro
- Luxury homes in Denver
- Our recent sales
- Buyer resources
- Seller resources
- Client testimonials
- All Denver neighborhoods
- Cherry Creek North spotlight
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Country Club become a historic district?
The western half was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1979, and Denver designated the Country Club Historic District as a Landmark District in 1990. The district includes 380 residences, most built between 1902 and 1945.
Can you tear down a house in the Country Club Historic District?
Demolition of most structures in a Denver historic district requires review, and often a public hearing, by the Landmark Preservation Commission, and the City gives these applications close examination. Accessory structures such as garages are typically reviewed by staff.
Do I need approval to change the outside of my house?
If the exterior work needs a building or zoning permit, or involves a curb cut or encroachment, it goes through Landmark design review and needs a Certificate of Appropriateness. The City also offers a separate quick review application.
Who designed the Country Club neighborhood?
The Fourth Avenue Realty Company chose architect William E. Fisher as principal designer. He made landscaped parkways the defining element and designed the Mediterranean gateways along Fourth Avenue.
Is the neighborhood the same as the Denver Country Club?
No. The Denver Country Club is the private club whose 1902 purchase of 120 acres along Cherry Creek started it all. The residential district was developed on the land to the north.
Where can I see homes for sale in Country Club?
Browse Denver Country Club homes for sale, or reach out to the Trish & Maggie Team about homes that may come up before they are listed.
Sources: City and County of Denver, Design Guidelines for Country Club Historic District; Landmark Preservation design review and demolition review pages.
Own a Piece of Country Club History
See Country Club Historic District homes for sale, search all Denver Country Club homes for sale, or talk with the Trish & Maggie Team about buying or selling here.
