Poll: Which of these 3 Colorado landmarks has the most iconic metalwork?

Here's the thing about Colorado: we don't do anything halfway.

Our mountains are taller. Our skies are bluer. And when it comes to architectural metalwork? We've got some of the most stunning examples in the entire country.

But which one takes the crown?

We're putting it to a vote, and we want YOU to weigh in. Below, we're breaking down three Colorado landmarks with absolutely iconic metalwork. Each one tells a different story about craftsmanship, history, and the art of working with metal.

Read through the contenders, then drop your vote in the comments. Bonus points if you tell us why you made your choice. The winning landmark gets a shoutout in our next newsletter!

Let's get into it.

THE CONTENDERS

CONTENDER #1: THE COLORADO STATE CAPITOL BUILDING (DENVER)

Let's start with the obvious heavyweight: Denver's Colorado State Capitol Building.

You've seen it. You've probably photographed it. That 24-karat gold dome catches the Colorado sun and practically demands attention from miles away. But here's what most people don't know: the dome has been re-gilded multiple times since the building's completion in 1894, and it takes approximately 200 ounces of gold leaf to cover it.

That's not just metalwork, that's a statement.

Beyond the dome, the Capitol features intricate brass fixtures throughout its interior. We're talking ornate railings, detailed door hardware, and decorative elements that have been carefully maintained for over a century. The craftsmanship required to keep these metal features in pristine condition is no small feat.

What makes it iconic: The gold dome is quite literally a beacon. It represents Colorado's mining heritage and serves as a visual anchor for the entire city. When people think "Colorado," many picture that gleaming dome against the Rocky Mountain backdrop.

The metalwork vibe: Grand, historic, unapologetically luxurious.

CONTENDER #2: STARR KEMPF'S KINETIC SCULPTURES (COLORADO SPRINGS)

Now for something completely different.

If the Capitol represents traditional metalwork at its finest, Starr Kempf's kinetic sculptures represent metal as living art. Located in the Skyway neighborhood of Colorado Springs, these towering wind-driven sculptures have become a must-see attraction for anyone passing through.

Created by artist and architect Starr Kempf (1917-1995), these massive metal structures stand up to 50 feet tall and move gracefully with the wind. They're made primarily from stainless steel and aluminum, engineered to balance perfectly so that even a gentle breeze sets them in motion.

Think about the craftsmanship involved: these aren't just sculptures, they're precision instruments. The welding, the balance calculations, the material selection, it all had to be perfect for these pieces to function as intended for decades.

What makes it iconic: These sculptures prove that metalwork isn't just functional or decorative, it can be transformational. They turn an ordinary residential street into an outdoor gallery and demonstrate what's possible when engineering meets artistry.

The metalwork vibe: Avant-garde, mesmerizing, technically brilliant.

CONTENDER #3: DENVER UNION STATION

Our third contender brings together history, restoration, and modern relevance in one stunning package.

Denver Union Station opened in 1881 and has served as the city's transportation hub ever since. But it's the Beaux-Arts renovation of 1914 that gave the station its iconic look, including the metalwork that makes it a local treasure.

Walk through Union Station today and you'll notice the restored brass fixtures, the ornate metal chandeliers, and the detailed ironwork that frames the building's massive windows. The 2014 renovation brought these metal elements back to their original glory, demonstrating what expert restoration can achieve.

The exterior features equally impressive metalwork: the famous "UNION STATION" sign, the decorative cornices, and the intricate metalwork details that define the Beaux-Arts style.

What makes it iconic: Union Station represents metalwork that evolves with its city. It's been maintained, restored, and celebrated for over a century. It proves that with proper care, architectural metal can remain relevant and beautiful through multiple generations.

The metalwork vibe: Timeless, refined, and deeply connected to Denver's identity.

THE BREAKDOWN: HOW THEY COMPARE

Let's look at these three contenders side by side:

Each landmark represents a completely different approach to metalwork. The Capitol showcases traditional craftsmanship and precious materials. Kempf's sculptures demonstrate engineering innovation and artistic vision. Union Station embodies thoughtful preservation and adaptive reuse.

There's no wrong answer here, just different priorities.

WHY THIS MATTERS (BEYOND THE FUN)

Here's where we get a little nerdy for a second.

At Aspen Metal Services, we think about metalwork constantly. It's what we do. And when we look at these three landmarks, we see more than just pretty buildings and sculptures, we see the importance of maintenance.

The Capitol's gold dome didn't stay gleaming for 130 years by accident. Union Station's brass fixtures didn't restore themselves. Even Kempf's sculptures require regular inspection and care to keep moving smoothly.

Great metalwork requires great maintenance. Period.

Whether you're managing a historic building, a modern office tower, or anything in between, the lesson from these landmarks is clear: metal features are an investment. Protecting that investment takes expertise, consistency, and the right approach.

That's true for a gold dome, and it's true for the elevator doors in your building lobby.

CAST YOUR VOTE!

Alright, enough from us. Now it's your turn.

Which Colorado landmark has the most iconic metalwork?

• 🏛️ OPTION A: Colorado State Capitol Building
• 🎨 OPTION B: Starr Kempf's Kinetic Sculptures
• 🚂 OPTION C: Denver Union Station

Drop your vote in the comments below! Tell us which one you chose and: most importantly: why. We want to hear your reasoning.

Have another Colorado landmark you think we should have included? Let us know that too. We're always looking for new metalwork to admire (and maybe feature in a future post).

BONUS QUESTION

While you're at it, here's a bonus question for the metalwork enthusiasts:

What's the most impressive piece of architectural metal you've encountered in Colorado?

Could be a building, a sculpture, a historic relic, or even something in your own property. We're genuinely curious what catches your eye when it comes to metalwork in our state.

Drop your answers below. We read every comment: and the best responses might just show up in our next newsletter with a shoutout.

WANT TO KEEP YOUR BUILDING'S METALWORK LOOKING ICONIC?

Whether your property features brass elevator doors, stainless steel railings, or bronze entrance fixtures, proper maintenance makes all the difference. The landmarks above look incredible because they're cared for by people who understand metal.

Curious about what your building's metalwork could look like with the right attention? Visit our blog for more insights on keeping your property's metal features in top condition: or reach out to chat with our team.

Now go vote. We're watching those comments.