Children's and CHUN submitted an application to the Denver Landmark Preservation Commission to preserve the eight-story building on its Downtown campus at 1056 E. 19th Ave. After a preliminary review, the commission sets a public hearing. The Denver City Council must approve the commission's subsequent recommendation.

"This building has a rich history and is a beautiful and distinct presence in central Denver," says Dori Biester, Children's president and chief executive officer. "CHUN has done an incredible job of conducting the historical research and organizing a comprehensive application. We support them in respecting and honoring the traditions and values associated with Tammen Hall and are hopeful Tammen will be designated a landmark."

If approved, as expected, the historic landmark status will mark Tammen for preservation. In general, this means the exterior of the building must retain its original appearance and any alterations to the exterior must be approved by the landmark commission. John Shaw, who heads Opus Northwest's local office and is advising Children's Hospital, tells GlobeSt.com it also will allow developers to get tax credit financing.

"Tammen Hall has a unique presence, and it will remain an architectural attraction that adds to the character and beauty of the neighborhood," says Jim Peiker, who operates a nearby bed and breakfast hotel near Children's Hospital and is chairman of CHUN's Historic Preservation Committee. Peiker says it has been a "long struggle" to get the designation, because from a development point of view, it would be easier to scrape the site and redevelop it. He credits Elbra Wedgeworth," city council president, whose district includes Children's Hospital, for helping advance the project.

"This is a very important step for the City of Denver and District 8 as planning takes place for the future of this vital neighborhood," Wedgeworth says. "The residents of central Denver will benefit from the special status of this important building, keeping the flavor of the neighborhood attractive and vibrant. Our history is our legacy for Denver. It is important that we maintain our historic buildings."

The building is named after Harry and Agnes Tammen, who were committed to the Children's mission and donated $100,000 toward the construction of Tammen Hall. Harry Tammen was publisher and editor of the Denver Post from 1895 to 1924. The building now houses Children's administrative offices and clinics.