Lisbon Avenue Charette
Milwaukee, WI- Mixed Use Multi-family - Proposed
- Rooted & Rising
Washington Park is a Milwaukee neighborhood with a rich history, defined by its diversity and strong sense of community. Lisbon Avenue, a central corridor, has experienced disinvestment in recent years resulting in gaps in access to essential resources. A network of vacant lots and city-owned parcels along this corridor present a significant opportunity for reinvestment that can directly benefit existing residents. Rooted and Rising, a local nonprofit, hosted a design charrette focusing on housing, economic development, public safety, and youth development, inviting KORB to explore conceptual redevelopment scenarios along the corridor. Working with residents and stakeholders, we developed a mixed-use, multifamily housing proposal introducing density while prioritizing attainable housing options. Grounded in community feedback, particularly the need for accessible, high-quality food option, the project integrates a full-service grocery store, community center, and retail space. Together, these elements aim to strengthen Lisbon Avenue as a vibrant, inclusive corridor that supports daily life, fosters economic opportunity, and reflects the values of the Washington Park community.
A carved massing responds to the site’s location with a hard edge proclaiming a gateway to the neighborhood and a softer, angled edge opening up to embrace the community.
With potential for the collaboration of local artists, a mural adorns both the hard and soft edges of the building. Representation of the neighborhood’s character is made without need for explicit ‘Washington Heights’ signage announcing the start of the neighborhood.
The simple typology of a dinner table reinforces the importance of shared meals in creating community. Nested against the grocer, the public plaza surrounds a multi-use ‘community table’ in aim of fostering similar connections.
