5th Annual Mayor’s Design Awards

This remodeled storefront makes a big impact on Locust Street. Large new windows and colorful signage energize the neighborhood and create an inviting presence on this highly visible corner.

Originally built in 1897 for industrialist William Manegold, this elegant Queen Anne Victorian home in the historic Concordia neighborhood is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places. Its current owners have thoughtfully renovated the building. Its graceful presence on Highland Boulevard adds to the rich character of the Bed & Breakfast District. Acanthus Inn website

This new infill housing successfully blends modern design into an older established neighborhood. The building's scale and massing complement its neighbors while the front stoop, large windows and balconies create a welcoming street presence.

The elegant mansion was built in 1910, for a prominent Milwaukee businessman, George Brumder. It is designed in the English Arts & Crafts style that typifies the historic grandeur of Wisconsin Avenue. The careful and meticulous restoration of this house makes it an outstanding contribution to the Bed & Breakfast District and offers visitors a rich experience of Milwaukee's history.

Cafe Lulu serves up a creative and colorful storefront in Bay View. The restored windows bring back the original character of the building, enliven the street, and invite diners to stop in. The awning and whimsical signs complement Cafe Lulu's casual and friendly neighborhood atmosphere.

The vibrant interior renovation of the Capital Christian Center creates an inspirational setting for the congregation's growing needs. The care given to the renovation exemplifies the church's commitment to this landmark building and the neighborhood.  

This unique store invigorates South Kinnickinnic Avenue. Bold graphics, vibrant colors, neon signs and large windows enliven the street and invite customers to peruse the latest in collectible comics.

This museum creates a lively presence on an important corner in the Historic Third Ward. Old and new materials are imaginatively interwoven in the storefront and provide a dynamic backdrop for ever-changing window displays.

This adaptive re-use in the Brady Street Historic District breathes new life into a former garage. Large windows create an engaging presence that qualifies this spot as another destination in the Brady Street experience.

This building renovation creates an elegant and unique neighborhood destination. New windows, awnings, charming signs and outdoor seating create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
 

This colorful sign creates a unique and engaging pedestrian experience. The large windows and bright neon enliven the corner and invite passersby to view the working laboratory inside.
 

The La Causa Child and Family Development Center is a colorful new landmark in Walker's Point. Bold colors and whimsical architecture enliven the street while large street level windows provide an inviting neighborhood presence.

This store holds a pivotal corner on the Lower East Side. Large windows, unique brick, attractive signs and outdoor seating complement the neighborhood and create a welcoming presence to customers arriving on foot or by car.  

This striking Queen Anne Victorian was built with Milwaukee's own cream city brick. It's careful and graceful renovation was done with attention to the finely crafted details of the style, which defined many Milwaukee Westside streets in the late 1800's. This house, originally built for industrialist David W. Howie, is on the National Register of Historic Places. This distinctive establishment is a worthy contribution to the Bed & Breakfast District.

This local gathering spot is a landmark in the Brady Street Historic District. Large windows, bold and colorful signs and outdoor seating entice customers and animate the street corner.

This noodle shop energizes the neighborhood. The colorful canopies, playful lighting and railing design enliven the street while the large windows and outdoor seating invite passersby to stop in for a delicious meal.

The Onopa Brewing Company adds a new dynamic to Riverwest. This sensitive rehabilitation of the former Zemka furniture store restores the best qualities of the original building. Large windows, accent lighting , creative signs and neon enliven the street and welcome customers in for a brew. This independently owned business continues Milwaukee's brewing heritage in a traditional neighborhood tavern.

This former gas station has been restored in a way that pays homage to the original art deco style design. The Sherman Perk is a true neighborhood coffee shop and a place that still serves high-octane fuel.

The adaptive re-use of this former power plant has extended the revival of Dr. Martin Luther King Drive and created a new landmark along the river in downtown. The building's sparkling new windows, colorful neon signs and bold entry canopies generate new energy and life in the area.

This theater's restored façade, creative details and neon signs provide an upbeat presence on Vliet Street. This one-of-kind cinema offers a unique entertainment experience including showings of classic 3-D movies.

The inspired color scheme of Woody's Restaurant stands out and invites diners to stop by. The large windows and colorful signage add a bright, upbeat presence on Fond du Lac Avenue.