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The Moderne is a prominent luxury apartment and condo tower here in downtown Milwaukee, located at 1141 N. Old World Third Street in the Westown / Park East area. Its history is closely tied to Milwaukee’s downtown redevelopment after the 2000s recession.
Early planning (2000s redevelopment push)
In the late 2000s, city leaders and developers were trying to redevelop the Park East corridor, a large downtown area that had been opened up after the removal of the Park East Freeway. The goal was to attract new housing and businesses back to downtown. The project that became The Moderne was proposed as a mixed-use high-rise with apartments, condos, retail, and parking. The developer was Barrett Lo Visionary Development, led by Milwaukee developer Rick Barrett.
Early proposals around 2009 envisioned a tall residential tower that would help restart downtown residential construction, which had stalled after the 2008 financial crisis.
Construction during the Great Recession (2011–2013)
Despite the difficult economy, the project moved forward.
- Groundbreaking: February 24, 2011
- Completion: 2013
- Architect: RINKA
- General contractor: J. H. Findorff & Son
Key facts about the building:
- 30 stories
- 348 feet tall
- 203 apartments
- 16 condominiums on the upper floors
- Retail space at street level, including a restaurant
When it opened, it became the tallest building west of the Milwaukee River.
Role in downtown revitalization
The Moderne was significant because it helped demonstrate demand for high-end urban housing in Milwaukee. After years of limited development, the tower attracted young professionals and empty nesters wanting downtown living. It also helped spur additional investment in the surrounding area, which later saw the development of the nearby Deer District and Fiserv Forum.
All these historical fun facts are even more reason to love calling The Moderne home!