Walker’s Point Infill
Milwaukee, WI- New Construction, Multi-Family, Urban Planning
- New Land Enterprises
- 4 Multi-Family Buildings
Walker's Point is quickly becoming one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Milwaukee. This former industrial area is being transformed as new development and infrastructure improvements are making the area more walkable and attractive. Working with New Land Enterprises, we identified a number of vacant sites in the neighborhood that were suitable for the construction of mixed-use housing. In each case, we worked with the city to appropriately increase allowable density and height, based on each building's location and context. We also worked to make sure that each new building that we proposed was aligned with the city's comprehensive plan.
The new buildings each occupy a prominent corner lot along a major traffic corridor. Building out the vacant corner sites helps define the street edge, introduces commercial space at desirable intersections and increases the overall density of the neighborhood. Residential parking is provided in each building and building lobbies and amenity spaces face the sidewalk in order to activate the street.
The facades that clad each of the new buildings look to the historic texture and scale of the neighborhood by interpreting traditional elements and characteristics through contemporary and cost-effective details.
Altogether, the buildings share similar attributes consistent with urban design best practices, but each one is appropriately adapted to its site and its surroundings. The massing of Element steps back along its secondary street facade to allow for a street level patio. Via is carved back along its south façade in response to the scale of its historic neighbor. Quartet holds its prominent corner site just a few blocks up the street from Walker’s Point’s iconic clock tower. Forma provides roof terraces facing the water tower sculpture across the street. Each building contributes to the neighborhood and responds appropriately to its context.
The interior materials and textures reflect the emerging culture of the neighborhood while also reflecting the character of the area’s industrial past.
