Charles Sink was an American architect who left a major influence on Colorado and shaped the modern architectural landscape of the mid-20th century. Sink attended the University of Pennsylvania, majoring in architecture, and then went on to study with the modernist Walter Gropius at the Harvard Graduate School of Design.
Gropius himself exerted a great influence on the progress of modern architecture and founded the German art academy Bauhaus. Once in the US, Gropius worked with Marcel Breuer, a former Bauhaus student and later fellow teacher. Breuer designed the building that is now the world headquarters Sotheby’s in New York.
Colorado Landmarks
In addition, Sink created a bond with Harvard classmate IM Pei. These ties laid the foundation for Sink’s architectural influence and his distinguished career. A fellow of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), he was recognized as an individual who has made exceptional contributions to the profession through design excellence, contributions to architectural education, and the advancement of the profession.
Together with Pei, Sink designed the Mile High Center, now known as 1700 Broadway, a larger complex connected to the Wells Fargo Center, which today houses offices, a food court and a small museum with memorabilia from Wells Fargo’s history. Other notable designs include Vail’s iconic Clock Tower and Summit House East in Copper Mountain.
One of his most recognizable works was McNichols Sports Arena. Completed in 1975, the indoor arena is adjacent to Mile High Stadium and was home to the Denver Nuggets and several hockey teams, including the Colorado Avalanche, who played their first game at the arena in 1995. Eventually, McNichols became outdated due to its 1970s features, and the building was demolished in 2000.
Photo courtesy of Denver Public Library Special Collections
Residential Renaissance
In 1969, One Cheesman Park, a residential high-rise at 1201 North Williams Street, was completed. Designed by Sink, it stands 19 stories tall and was intended to cater to wealthy East Coast transplants who preferred apartment living over single-family homes. Press reports after its construction indicate that the building was popular, although some found it too modern for their tastes.
LIV Sotheby’s International Realty (LIV SIR), converted into apartments in 1972, currently has three listings in the building, starting with Unit 2A, a two-bedroom, two-bath, 1,192-square-foot condo. Original parquet floors, an updated white and light kitchen and an open layout that captures the landscape of Cheesman Park.
Unit 17A is a two-bedroom, four-bathroom, 4,138-square-foot property with expansive views of Denver and the Rocky Mountains. This unique Denver residence is a full-floor penthouse with floor-to-ceiling glass along the entire south side of the home. Both properties are represented by Trish Bragg and Maggie Armstrong.
One floor higher, yes Unit 18Arepresented by Debra Fagan, a three-bedroom, three-bathroom, over 4,000-square-foot penthouse that also spans the entire floor. Abundant natural light and beautiful views give way to living spaces designed for entertaining.
Sink also designed the largest home in Vail and Beaver Creek in 1985. Sink’s modernist design principles are clearly reflected in the clean lines, open spaces and seamless integration with the mountainous environment. Features include an indoor pool, wine cellar, commercial catering kitchen and beautiful views of the Beaver Creek ski slopes. This property was sold in early 2025 and was represented by Malia Cox Nobrega.
Sink’s design principles were linked to International Style Modernism, with a strong use of glass and light, as evident in his residential work. He respected the natural environment and preferred a functional design approach. In doing so, the prolific architect helped change Denver’s skyline and pioneered modern design in Vail, Copper Mountain, Aspen and Keystone.
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