At The Slate Hotel, guest safety and architectural design work seamlessly through the integration of Smoke Guard® elevator smoke-containment systems. Designed to provide code-compliant smoke protection without compromising aesthetics, these systems safeguard occupants while preserving the hotel’s open, modern interior.

Located on the former campus of the Emily Griffith Opportunity School, this historic property has been thoughtfully transformed into The Slate Hotel in downtown Denver. To support the adaptive reuse of the building while meeting current life safety requirements, Smoke Guard M400 Elevator Smoke Containment systems were installed at elevator openings throughout the hotel. The systems protect each floor from smoke migration while allowing the original open corridor design to remain intact. Guests may notice the discreet housing above each elevator opening–the concealed “trap” door where the smoke curtain remains hidden until deployment.

Upon fire alarm activation, Smoke Guard elevator smoke curtains automatically descend, creating a smoke-resistant barrier that helps prevent smoke from traveling through elevator hoistways and into adjacent floors. By utilizing elevator smoke-containment technology in place of traditional enclosed elevator lobbies, The Slate Hotel was able to maximize usable space, preserve the building’s historic character, and maintain a more open, welcoming guest experience.

Ideal for hospitality applications, Smoke Guard systems provide a virtually invisible fire and smoke separation solution that remains out of sight until needed. The result is enhanced life safety, improved smoke control performance, and greater design flexibility for architects, owners, and developers.

Powers Products partnered with the project team to provide design assistance, code-compliance support, and professional installation of the Smoke Guard system, delivering a reliable elevator smoke containment solution that protects hotel guests, staff, and property while preserving the architectural vision of this unique downtown Denver destination.