4240 ARCHITECTURE ANNOUNCES PRINCIPAL RETIREMENT

14 May 2024

DENVER — 4240 Architecture, a Denver-based, full-service architecture firm dedicated to designing projects that celebrate the unique spirit and story of its place, announced the retirement of Christian Barlock.

After a distinguished career spanning over 30 years, Christian Barlock has announced his retirement and transition to Principal Emeritus for key projects. “Christian, in his time with 4240, has been a seasoned and complete architect, whose every line put to paper is dense with forethought and intention” says Matt Cecere, fellow principal. In Christian’s new role as Principal Emeritus, he will focus on supporting key design opportunities and contributing on select projects. 

Christian grew up in a historic Denver neighborhood and developed a deep affinity for old homes and classical design. His love of design led to a Bachelor of Architectural Engineering from University of Colorado Boulder and later a Master of Architecture from Miami University. Post graduation and an internship in San Francisco, Christian returned to Denver to join the award-winning Urban Design Group and was part of the initial architectural group to spin off to form 4240 with founding partners Randy Johnson and Peter H. Dominick Jr. before eventually becoming a principal in his own right.  Christian noted, “I was inspired by the firm's creativity, site-specific design approach, and varied project typologies.” He was initially drawn to the “diverse portfolio and creative design exhibited in numerous projects including Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort Hotel, western ranch compounds and custom homes.”

Christian worked closely with 4240’s founding partners, and the deep contingent of architects and designers who collaborated on the early projects in 4240’s rich history. As a result, Christian's portfolio is studded with iconic projects ranging from ranch stewardship to large resort hotels and custom residential homes. The Boundary at Moreland Village, a more recent award-winning resort project, was a personal favorite in which he closely tied back to his love of a classically focused architectural approach and expression.  Harmony was often a driving concept behind design conversations and decisions and has been a consistent theme throughout his career. Christian served on the board for the Rocky Mountain Chapter of Institute of Classical Architecture and Art (ICAA) and frequently supports classical lectures and drawing exhibitions.

“Christian has been an integral part of 4240’s expansive prominence in the design of mountain resort and hospitality projects across the west and greater parts of the world," said DJ Gratzer, who has worked closely with Christian and recently stepped into the role of Principal at 4240. “We are incredibly fortunate to continue benefiting from Christian’s residential design acumen and insights in his retirement and as Principal Emeritus."

Notable projects include: Horizon Pass Lodge at Bachelor Gulch, The Arrabelle at Vail Square, One Snowmass at Snowmass Base Village, numerous Disney Resort Hotels including the most recent Hong Kong Disneyland Explorer’s Lodge, as well as select residential projects for clients in Vail, Aspen, Denver, and Palmetto Bluff South Carolina.

Many know Christian as a talented designer who loved working together with clients to create unique and memorable architecture. Many also know the best place to find him is at a drawing table with trace and straight-edge, or painting landscapes, or refining his already exceptional game on the golf course. Christian has a way looking to simplicity to solve challenges and his architecture always results in timeless beauty.

About 4240 Architecture

4240 Architecture is a Denver-based, full-service architecture firm that has built a reputation for design ingenuity, client service, and memorable outcomes. The firm’s portfolio reflects a wide range of project types, including mixed-use urban infill, multi-family residential, commercial office, active senior living, higher education, and resorts and hospitality. Inspired by clients, 4240 uses a charrette-based process to uncover site specific, economically feasible, culturally sensitive design. To learn more, visit www.4240architecture.com.

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