A Mid-Century Modern Gem in Denver
Tucked away in Harvey Park, the Cliff May Mid-Century Modern homes are one of Denver’s most sought-after architectural enclaves. Bounded by Iliff Avenue to the north, Osceola Street to the west, Lowell Boulevard to the east, and Vassar Avenue to the south, this neighborhood sits near Harvey Park itself and the historic Loretto Heights campus. Originally considered one of the most affordable Mid-Century Modern communities in Denver, this hidden gem has seen a rapid rise in demand as buyers recognize the rarity of these homes.
The Story of the Cliff May Homes
In the early 1950s, Denver developer Franklin Burns sought to bring modernist design to the growing Harvey Park community. Having already built the successful Burns Brentwood subdivision for returning WWII soldiers, he turned to something innovative and ahead of its time.
D.C. Burns Construction secured the rights to build the Rocky Mountain Cliff May Homes, a collection of 170 Mid-Century Modern houses designed by Cliff May, the legendary California architect known for pioneering the California Ranch style. The homes were a perfect fit for post-war America, featuring open floor plans, indoor-outdoor living, and clean modernist aesthetics.
Revolutionary Prefabrication and Design
What made these Cliff May homes unique was their prefabricated construction process. The homes were built in quality-controlled factories, then flat-packed and shipped via truck to the building sites, where they were quickly assembled on-site in a matter of days.
Even the original fences in the neighborhood were made from leftover shipping materials—a testament to the efficient and sustainable approach of these homes. This method of post-and-beam construction set these homes apart, providing an airy, spacious feel with walls of glass that brought in natural light and views of the outdoors.
To maintain variety and visual interest, the different home models were rotated in various directions on the lots, ensuring that, while homes appeared similar in size from the street, no two looked exactly the same.
The 1955 Parade of Homes & National Recognition
In 1955, 86 of these Cliff May homes were featured in Denver’s Parade of Homes, showcasing their innovative design and livability. Thanks to the vision of D.C. Burns Construction, Harvey Park became home to the largest collection of Cliff May homes outside of California.
A Lasting Legacy in Harvey Park
Many original Cliff May homes still stand today, with homeowners carefully preserving their mid-century character while making thoughtful updates. Some original owners still reside in the neighborhood, with one long-time resident proudly calling Newton Street home for decades.
With rising demand for authentic mid-century modern homes in Denver, the Cliff May homes of Harvey Park are no longer the affordable secret they once were. These homes represent a rare opportunity to own a piece of architectural history—and with each passing year, their value and desirability continue to grow.
Buying or Selling a Cliff May Home in Denver?
If you're looking to buy a Cliff May home in Harvey Park, or if you're a homeowner considering selling, understanding the architectural significance and market demand is key. These homes attract buyers seeking mid-century authenticity, open-concept living, and seamless indoor-outdoor flow.
Let’s connect and explore the unique real estate opportunities in this one-of-a-kind mid-century modern enclave.
Ready to own a piece of mid-century history? Contact us today to explore available Cliff May homes in Harvey Park!
