The client wished to redevelop this prominent corner in the historic Monroe-Dudgeon neighborhood of Madison, WI. Design approval hinged upon the good will of a highly organized and vocal neighborhood association. Although existing neighborhood structures have minimal setbacks from the street, the client required that parking had to be “in front” of the buildings.

Two deteriorated utilitarian structures, a grocery store and an auto garage, were razed from the site. The new retail center is housed within two single-story brick buildings, one of which includes a mezzanine. Roof lines feature variations in height, and the store fronts step back and forth to avoid the appearance of a strip mall. Massing, signage, and detailing reflect the 1900’s character of the neighborhood. Building ends abut the sidewalks, reinforcing the line of adjacent building fronts framing the streets. Tower elements help to hold the corner while lending interest.

Initially intended to be completed in two phases, the retail spaces were 100% leased in advance, allowing both phases to be accomplished simultaneously at a cost below the $1.5 million budget.