It’s no secret that parenting is challenging. Full of ups, downs, and even a sideways turn here and there, it’s a life-long journey that requires dedication. This dedication can often feel isolating, especially when the hyper-focus on being the “perfect” parent overwhelms all other priorities in life. But while perfect parenting doesn’t exist, good community does, and it can make the trials of parenting so much lighter.
Nestled in Denver’s Highland neighborhood lives The Den, a community hub designed for sparking connections. Dreamt up by founder Chandler Lipe, a Denver mom and entrepreneurial spirit, The Den was born out of a desire to bring people together in a calm and safe environment, and, according to Lipe, “appreciate the profoundness of parenthood.”
“We try to make sure all needs are met,” says Lipe. The Den caters mainly to parents, caretakers, and young children, but Lipe emphasizes that the space is open to all good-hearted community members, and she strives to make all feel welcome. “Community provokes connection,” Lipe states. Her hope is that community members will enjoy the coffee shop, see the play areas, and think of people they know who would find The Den’s resources helpful.
When stepping into The Den, the coffee shop in front greets you with large windows allowing plenty of natural light in, and offers classic coffee favorites as well as a seasonal menu and pastries from local businesses. Further into the space you’ll find a large open play area with plenty of comfortable seating. Past that, there’s a classroom at the back that serves as a conference room and second playroom. And finally, for the parents who need some quiet time, the Treatment Room is available with dim lights, a sound machine, and cozy furniture.
The Den offers programmed events such as CPR classes, baby bodywork classes, support groups, and seasonal celebrations. The coffee shop is open to the public, but to get access to the rest of the building, a membership or day pass is required.
It’s clear that The Den’s interior was purposefully designed to reflect its mission. Everything from the toys available to the art on the walls creates a calming environment to exist in. Even the seating was intentionally arranged to allow for natural connections to occur. On The Den’s design choices, Lipe says it’s important to her that “people feel safe while [they’re] existing in a state of vulnerability.”
Lipe and her leadership team know first-hand the difficulties of parenting: the isolating feelings of postpartum, the nervousness of meeting other parents, and the exhaustion from monitoring children in an overcrowded play place. The Den aims to meet parents where they’re at and welcome them into a restful space where they can recognize those feelings and let them fade away. Placing priority on connection over perfection, The Den serves as a reminder to parents and community members that they’re not on this journey alone.
