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Experience Colorado’s forest with local artist-commissioned recordings. Hear the authentic sounds of day and night, perfectly synced to the natural rhythms of each season. Learn More.

Our Story

our story

Founded from a Reverence for Nature

We started with a question:  What would it look like to bring nature back into our cities? As a community of environmentalists and entrepreneurs, we imagined a hotel inspired by nature. From biophilic architecture, natural materials, original art, and seasonal cuisine, there is a love for the natural world in every detail. Populus was created by Urban Villages, designed by AD100 architecture firm Studio Gang and led by MacArthur Fellow Jeanne Gang, brought to life by interior designer, Heather Wildman of Wildman Chalmer Designs, with a thoughtful art program curated by environmentalist Katherine Homes, and operated by Aparium Hotel Group. 

The entrepreneurs

A Vision for Populus

At his core, Urban Villages founder Grant McCargo is an environmentalist and an entrepreneur. Urban Villages’s mission is to bring nature back into our cities through timeless design that will last for generations. It is this vision that has guided the Populus project to be a new model for environmentally-forward hospitality.

partner artists

Celebrating Nature Through Art

Just as Aspen trees interconnect through their roots to survive, resilient communities include artists, musicians, chefs, community builders, thought leaders, and environmentalists for mutual support. Our art collection, curated by environmentalist Katherine Homes, showcases artists who embrace this ethos, creating pieces that narrate our deep connection to each other and nature.

Our Hospitality

Hotels Done Differently

Aparium Hotel Group is a hotel development and management company for Populus. They’re dedicated to redefining hospitality through their “Hotels Done Differently” approach. Founded by Mario Tricoci, Aparium combines the business acumen of large hospitality companies with the charm of independent lifestyle hotels. Aparium’s commitment to creating unique, locally inspired experiences has earned it recognition as a leading hotel brand by Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards 2024.

environmental stewardship

A Model of Mindful Hospitality

At Populus, we believe protecting the planet is a collective responsibility and journey. The heartbeat of Populus is a deep reverence for nature. It started at the beginning with the biophilic architecture and use of locally-sourced, recycled, or sustainably-certified building materials during the construction process. It extends throughout the guest experience, with One Night One Tree initiative, a commitment to source food from regenerative, organic farmers, and an on-site biodigester that composts 100% of food waste. Learn more about our environmental stewardship.

Environmental Stewardship
one night one tree

Breathe Deeply, Support the Planet

At Populus, we have a deep reverence for nature. As stewards of the built environment, we believe we have a responsibility to offset our impact. That’s why, for every night you stay at our hotel, we’ll plant a tree.

One Night One Tree