In the majestic Midwest prairie, many buildings known as the "Sullivanesque" made quaint farm towns look like "Little Chicagos."  The comparison is cute, but really does have some truth.  Between 1910 and 1930, a Chicago terra-cotta manufacturer, the Midland Terra Cotta Company, specialized in stock ornament that was affordable and readily available to any builder or contractor.  Once someone is familiar with the product, these buildings are immediately recognizable.  Ronald Schmitt authored a book on this subject, Sullivanesque: Urban Architecture and Ornamentation, published in 2002.   His outstanding research on the Sullivanesque presents the influence of this Prairie aesthetic that embellished both urban and rural America.   While his work primarily focused on the Midwest, it also covered the entire continental United States, as well as Canada and Puerto Rico.

The ornamentation on this building pictured above competes with the bright teal awnings, neon lights, posters, and active traffic.  However, this is the type of "unnoticed" and "under-appreciated" ornament that Schmitt valued in his book plays a significant part of the narrative of Wisconsin's vernacular architecture.  While it is an import from Chicago, this type of ornament can be found all across the state, from Superior, Rhinelander, Lancaster, Manitowoc, and many other cities, towns, and villages.  The design aesthetic is inspired by a love for nature and a fascination with geometry, order, and balance, it originates in the Midwest.

Since stock-ornament was Midland's trademark, identical designs appear on buildings in all different locations.  One of particular interest to Wisconsin is medallion no. 4508.  It's a circular disc with a diameter of approximately 3 feet.  In Schmitt's book on the Sullivanesque, he printed a plate of the medallion with trimmings on one of the introductory pages.  If you don't have a copy of this essential book, you can see it on the "A Chicago Sojourn" blog from March 13, 2016, on Sullivanesque buildings in Chicago.  He included photographs of many buildings with the medallion no. 4508.  Also, on Eric Nordstrum's blog Urban Remains, he pictures a catalog image of Plate 45 from the manufacturer.

In my research, I have found that the medallion appeared on several buildings as well, however, not all of them were from Midland or terra cotta.  ​

Notice in Wisconsin there were four examples of Midland Terra Cotta's medallion no. 4508 from the 1920s.  In 1915 the disc was installed on the Otto Hilgermann Building in Rhinelander.  In 1922 a commercial building (probably a bank or insurance co.) used the disc in Milwaukee with one whole medallion and four half-discs.  Four years later Siebert & Kegler installed seven discs on the new Forest Home automobile showroom for the Chevrolet Co.  And up north again in 1927 the medallion units were installed on a single-story building for the Metropolitan Life Insurance Company in Superior.  The discs on each installation are all identical, hence "stock ornament," but are surrounded with slightly different trimmings.  The white, opaque enamel glaze appeared in Rhinelander and Superior, but in Milwaukee there were green and cream-colored glazes used.

While these occurrences are just neat and fun for the terra-cotta explorer (and also support their preservation!), perhaps most interesting are two installations that appear similar to the Midland Terra Cotta medallion, but are not from the company nor are terra cotta.  

In 1928 architect Gus A. Krasin designed an addition to the Hotel Charles in Marshfield.  The cheesemakers Blodgett & Sons Co. owned and built the original structure built in 1926 and commissioned Krasin for the addition.  The architect did not contract Midland, but instead managed to have concrete units made that resemble the Sullivanesque ornament.  The manufacturer of this ornament is currently unidentified, but it would be really interesting to know how create this "knock-off" Midland ornament.  All the while, no hard feelings should be placed on Midland, as their stock ornament was a knock-off of designs by Louis Sullivan and his following, such as George Elmslie.

In addition to the precast stone installation in Marshfield is a striking installation in Milwaukee.  Little information is known about the building, and when city records are available again, I can update this blog with what I find.  For now, its a mixed-use, two-story brick building with concrete trimmings and decorative faience tile. Notice how the installation takes inspiration from the magnifying glass design.  Instead of a relief panel, it uses simplified, plain surfaces and colored-tile patterns to express intricacy.  While the manufacturer of all the field tile cannot be said, decorative tiles from the Flint Faience & Tile Co. appear on the façade.  

Why are these installations not in terra cotta?   Did the builders not believe in the durability of terra cotta against the Midwest climate, or did they not understand the product?  That is possible, but I am also a fan of speculating that builders had the creative license to do as they chose.  Architects and contractors needed to manage a budget, satisfy a client's expectations for ornate design, and employ the superlative materials.  In accomplishing these goals, creative outcomes emerged as we see in Marshfield and Milwaukee.  Additionally, it's important to recognize  Midland Terra Cotta's whole business plan was practically a knock-off of the brilliant, sophisticated designs of prairie architects Louis Sullivan and George Elmslie, among others.  In essence, they were a creative problem solution to meeting demands of the building industry and providing a more affordable version of meaningful craft in a quicker time-frame.   Thus, builders taking that service even further by using different materials for similar, ornamental patterns makes sense.  

Finding these patterns in the built-environment are important because they show an aesthetic language.  This is not an alternative phrase for style, but rather, it speaks to a deeper meaning that the shapes and motifs represent.  Ornamentation can be more than a superficial embellishment.  They can do more than dress up a plain brick building.  Volutes, ovals, and triangles are more than geometry.  Midland products help spread the designs created by prairie architects.  These aesthetics were based on philosophy and a spiritual connection to their work and its meaning.  As Schmitt opens up with in his book, Sullivanesque architecture, "successfully integrated 'high art' with functional construction ... The gap between the refined art of the originator and the 'low art' of the imitators was relatively narrow.  The adoption of the Sullivanesque style generally improved the design caliber of the speculative building and the resulting urban fabric."  This description Schmitt makes for Sullivanesque makes the aesthetic seem honorable for any building with such designs, even if they are merely "imitative."  And such respect for its preservation is well placed since it represents a regional identity.

Such meditation on the significance, beauty, and potential of design and material seems to be abandoned by most contemporary architects and building suppliers.  As demonstrated in this blog's simple reflection, even small-town architects in the early 20th century were able to dable into a sense of spirit and expression in utilitarian architecture.  ​A reflection on new-builds from the last 5-10 years will lack any sense of regional spirit and connection.  Few individuals such as "starchitects" are able to carry on that reflective practice.  When someone's design for a corner bank meets a fraction of the caliber of Calatrava's Quadracci Pavilion, please let me know.  

The buildings Herbert Tullgren designed significantly shape the experience of architectural ornament in Milwaukee.  While his father, Martin, employed concrete for ornament, Herbert primarily used architectural terra cotta.  Some of his most recognized works featured terra cotta and remain intact today.  His major landmark downtown was a two-story shop for George Watts (1925).  An addition he designed for the Hotel Shorecrest (1929) and a Modern/Art Deco apartment building known as the Hathaway (1930) added elegance to the lakefront skyline.  And his most valued building of artistic expression and playful craft was the Bertelson (1927) on the East Side.  

Tullgren was not shy about exploiting the advantages of terra cotta.  He designed with architectural terra cotta more than any other architect in Wisconsin.  In Milwaukee County he had over thirty buildings erected with the product, as well as significant structures in Madison, Waukesha, Manitowoc, and Duluth.  While many of this graceful works are extant, unfortunately several have been lost to the wrecking ball.  Hence, it is important to recognize Tullgren's buildings and his influence on the Milwaukee built-environment.  

The business block likely built as an investment property for Mr. Tullgren is an essential building to give recognition.  The colors and fanciful ornament may captivate your attention as you walk by, but there is history here that may not be apparent unless you know about it.  

Passing by this busy intersection on the westside, the grand arches and elaborate parapet will strike you.  Despite being tucked behind parked cars, a bus stop, and trees, the bright glazes and ornament continue to stand out.  

The structure was erected in 1925.  The American Terra Cotta and Ceramic Company of Crystal Lake, Illinois, manufactured the terra cotta.  Their work order for the project was 3589 (according to the Statler Gilfillen index).  Interestingly, the Milwaukee Sentinel stated on November 25, 1924, that bids were being taken for a five-story building in this location.  What happened to those mystery "stories?"  

Ornamental motifs make Tullgren's terra-cotta buildings so captivating.  Common design elements by the architect, including floral medallions, urns, elaborate arches, and fantastic capitals such as the one depicted above appear on the façade.  Who would imagine a lion battling two fire-breathing dragons over a basket of flowers?  It cannot be said necessarily that it was Tullgren's imagination.  It could have been the playful mind of a terra-cotta craftsman.  Either way, it is here in Milwaukee and we can admire it on the street today.

While the motifs really make an adventure out of exploring Tullgren's facades, this building in particular stands out because of the range of glazes it features.  In fact, no other building in Wisconsin features as many glazes as this one does.  In total, there are 19 unique glazes on this facade.  They include semi-transparent golden amber and yellow-orange glazes, opaque and glossy black glazes, satin blues, pinks, purples, beiges, greens and copper, as well as a pulsichrome surface with buff and copper hues.  

The range of glazes on this building make its preservation even more important.  Overall, the building remains intact and occupied.  Like mentioned in a caption, the urns are missing from the parapets.  And the condition of the surfaces are good too.  There are some defects along the base units, including some chipping of the glaze and a crack.  Unfortunately, the entire base units along the north elevation have been painted.  This is really tragic and does not improve the building's appearance.  There could have been a more careful, isolated application of paint such as seen on the Strong Building in Beloit.  Thankfully, since these are vitrified glazed units, the paint can easily be removed with some scrubbing.  Otherwise, the rest of the façade has been really well preserved. ​ Below shows a detail of the base from 2014, which clearly shows surface damage and a crack.  Another detail shows the two glazes with interesting colors and textures.  

The variety of glazes represented on this façade makes the business block for Mr. Tullgren his glazed masterpiece.  However, whether you live on the west, north, east, or south side of Milwaukee, you can find one his terra-cotta gems gracing the street.  When libraries reopen, a full list of Tullgren's terra-cotta buildings are found in my book on Architectural Terra Cotta of Milwaukee County.  In the meantime, you can use the University of Minnesota Anderson Library, Northwest Architectural Archives as a resource for exploring Tullgren.  Click here to see the photographic collection, beginning with this building.  You will see other, stunning, historic photographs of his work taken for the American Terra Cotta & Ceramic Company.  Several of these structures, such as Royal Loop Hotel, Belmont Hotel, and the Bills Block, are no longer standing.   You can also use the Wisconsin Historical Society to look up specific property records.

The architects Herbst & Kuenzli designed some of the most fascinating school buildings in the Milwaukee area.  Between 1924 and 1929, they designed several schools in their offices on the top floor of the Bartlett Building.  Marquette University High School (1924), St. Catherine School (1928), Messmer High School (1929), and Wauwatosa High School (1929) were a few.  Each of these school buildings had facades made of architectural terra cotta and brick.   Faience tile was also found in all of the interiors.  In terms of design, they were some of the most prestigious in the 1920s.  

They also designed a pair of elementary schools for Wauwatosa Public Schools in 1929; Roosevelt Elementary on 73rd & Wright St and McKinley Elementary on 89th & Meinecke Ave.  Not only are they twin schools, but they also share design motifs with Wauwatosa High School, now East High.  Both buildings are stunning examples of academic architecture.  Many schools built after World War II did not plan for such beautiful facilities.  Unfortunately, one of them is about to be demolished soon.

McKinley Elementary is one of four school replacements in Wauwatosa that is a part of the $124.9 million redevelopment referendum.  By Fall 2021, Underwood, McKinley, Lincoln, and and Wilson will all be replaced with completely new buildings.  While the upgrades will make the schools better learning environments, each of these historic buildings feature precious, handmade architectural details.  Such craft may make learning in these schools seem like a privilege.  McKinley is by far one of the neatest and most beautiful elementary schools in the state.  Few schools can compare to the quantity of artistic features installed in the building.  And, while Roosevelt Elementary is a twin school, McKinley has just a little bit more.  

Despite the loss of historic design, it must be acknowledged that this development is exciting and crucial for the students, staff, and school communities.   The new facilities will be more proactive toward the needs of their communities and learners.  Much of the rationale for new buildings was covered by Darryl Enriquez in the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel.  While the new school buildings will be tremendous for Wauwatosa, hopefully they will not lose the unique historic features that made learning in these schools so incredible.

McKinley Elementary, in particular, has tons of tiles.  The Art teacher, Jenny Leigh, helped me around the building to discover their stunning collection.  All the bathrooms and several stairways feature unglazed tiles.  Numerous bubbler backgrounds appear on all three floors.  Most extraordinary is a fireplace in the kindergarten room. 

These tiles are of historic significance and they contribute to the culture of education. Some of the tile is simply functional, such as the floor tile in the bathrooms and the coping found on many windowsills. However, much of the tiles are works of art. They were designed to make schoolchildren feel welcome at school, to enjoy the learning environment, and to feel at home.  They were meant to capture student's imaginations, nurture their creativity, and foster their appreciation for art.  Nowadays, these tiles can still teach students craft, beauty, and how to imagine creative ways to use wall spaces.

Kindergarten teacher, Susan Zeimet, admits that she loves having the coolest room in the school building.  She has been teaching in the room with the fireplace for 19 years.  During this time she has learned many stories about the showpiece in her classroom.   She understands there is history in her room and appreciates the importance of those tiles.  She suggests that the fireplace should be installed in the library of the new school building.  

Will this happen?  As of now, many staff hope so.  In the meantime, I will continue to investigate the story of what is happening to these tiles.  Hopefully, these tiles remain with the kids.  Even if the tiles of nursery rhymes are outdated, these works of art belong to them.  The kids should be able to see these tiles when they go to the drinking fountain for water, or sit in front of the fireplace for story time.  Whether it is a new school building tomorrow or a hundred years from now, those tiles belong to the kids and the school community.    

Handmade tiles were commonly found in buildings of all kinds in Wisconsin in the 1920s and 1930s. Schools, churches and homes frequently featured floor and wall tiles made by various tile manufacturers in the United States. If you grew up in the Milwaukee area in the 1940s or later it is very likely that you have seen tile installations in these buildings but you may not be aware that much of that tile was manufactured locally in South Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Ironically, tile installations by this local company are almost always misidentified as being the product of other manufacturers.

Our collaboration began in the summer of 2018. While working on my book on architectural terra cotta I began to notice tile installations and began to dig into the subject. I quickly discovered Kelly Dudley and Kathy Roberts, a Phoenix, Arizona couple who have been collecting and researching Continental since the mid-1990s. Their passion for tiles and Continental have led them around the US and to Belgium, although it began in South Milwaukee on a visit to Kathy’s family.  On that trip Kathy was astounded to discover that the empty warehouse building at the end of her block of Menomonee Avenue was at one time the factory and show room of a tile company, something she was unaware of while growing up. Whitney Gould wrote a fantastic article for the Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel in 2005, featuring the factory building and the kaleidoscope of tiles inside.
​
We have now located approximately 250 sites containing Continental tile, from Wisconsin to Florida. The search continues, with the hope of locating Continental tile in all 50 states. Installations include schools, churches, homes, storefronts, theaters, and municipal buildings. While most of these sites feature floor tile, others include fireplaces, fountains, pools, and wainscotings with compelling, decorative appeal. Most surprising about these sites is that many of them were built in the 1930s, during the Great Depression that saw many other tile manufacturers go out of business. Documenting these sites has been a privilege.  Having a mental library of all their work really makes you believe in the influence and impact of art tile.  However, these sites that make you appreciate local culture and community may not last, especially if the public is not educated about them.  ​

While the splendid craft of the products from the Continental Faience and Tile Company make their feature in a book worthy-enough, the aging of the buildings that feature their tiles make the book even more pressing.  From what I have experienced, many people that own buildings with these tiles are aware they have something special, but know little or anything about it.  Part of keeping these tiles special is that the public is educated about them and that they are preserved properly.   

These are reasons is why Dudley, Roberts and I are working on this book.  When finished, the book will be a company history and portfolio, including detailed product images and many installations sites, an explanation of how their products were crafted, a biography on the company owner Bergmans, as well as a guide on how to preserve the tiles.  The public needs a reference on how to identify these tiles, appreciate them, talk about them, and preserve them.  

Currently Dudley, Roberts and I are still researching, however, we have a draft manuscript in place and are continually working on the book design.  We will soon need to determine the publisher.

In the meantime, to learn more about the Continental Faience & Tile Company, please come to my presentation on Thursday, October 10 at the City Hall in South Milwaukee.  The lecture will last about an hour and it is free!  I will have some tile replicas for sale for $10 a piece.

Also, please send me an email if you would like to share information or if offer a tour of your home or building.  I have visited many sites and found some of the best tile from people offering to share.    Thank you!

Beetles and all sorts of insects are all around during the summer in the Midwest.  Whether you are digging your hands in the dirt, enjoying a nature path, or relaxing in the shade, these miniature and active creatures make their appearance.  If spotted, the vibrant and lustrous colors of their exoskeletons can be really captivating.  Beetles have fascinated humankind so much that they can even be found on buildings, crafted by artists.

The scarab is perhaps one of the most intriguing beetles in the arts.   They have come to symbolize many ideas, including rebirth and regeneration.  They are also known as the "dung beetle" because frankly, they play with manure.  The dung beetle impressively rolls feces into a ball so it can feed on its liquid nutrients.  The ancient Egyptians observed this behavior and compared it to their sun deity, Khepri, who rolled the sun across the sky.  This comparison exalted the dung beetle as one of the most important symbols in their arts and architecture.

In the early 1920s, the adoration of the dung beetle in Egyptian civilization was re-appreciated by craftsmen, artists, and architects in the United States.  The scarab, similar to Mayan hieroglyphs or Greek ornament, was another example of how creatives appropriated symbols from cultures of that past.  Many buildings erected in the "Egyptian Revival" style featured the scarab.  Some of these structures were built with stone or concrete, however, a handful featured the intricate and colorful detail of architectural terra cotta.

The Northwestern Terra Cotta Company of Chicago, Illinois created Egyptian-style ornament for a few buildings in the Midwest.  One of them was the Masonic Temple in Racine, Wisconsin.  The structure was an addition built in 1922 with designs from local architect and member of the temple Edmund B. Funston.  On the frieze one can observe a winged scarab represented in opaque, matte glazes.  The designs stretches across five units at approximately nine-in-a-half feet.  In the center one can notice tan, dark brown, orange, blue, and green glazes on a single unit.  The superior craft of the terra-cotta scarab has the power to captivate any passerby.  

During 1928 appeared the medallion depicted below on the Scarab Club in Detroit, Michigan.  It is only a block away from the Detroit Institute of Arts.  The architect, Lancelot Sukert, positioned the scarab-seal on the third story of the brick facade above the front door.  The richly-glazed tile was created by the Pewabic Tile Company of the same city.   Its carefully applied surfaces featured a variety of seven glazes.  

As mentioned on a historical marker next to the building, the winged scarab, "an Egyptian symbol of rebirth, represents the club's commitment to the perpetual renewal of the arts in Detroit."  The site was built as an art center and continues to be one today.  The clubhouse has hosted many of the world's most important artists, including John Sloan, Diego Rivera, Marcel Duchamp, and Norman Rockwell.  

Outside of the Midwest are also two more buildings with ceramic scarabs in Utah.  The more extraordinary of the two is the Peery's Egyptian Theater in the city of Ogden.  Notice in the picture below the diverse palette of glazes represented on the terra-cotta facade, including greens, pinks, yellows, blues, and purples.  There are four scarabs that embellish the ornate frieze.  The architects were Leslie S. Hodgson & Myrl A. McClenahan.

Also in Utah is the Salt Lake Masonic Temple, built in 1926.  Its imposing facade is built with buff pulsichrome terra cotta.  Above the side entrance, as shown here on Reddit, is a scarab.  The architect was Carl W. Scott.  

Much can be learned from the portrayal of the scarab on these Egyptian revival buildings.   While they were not built as funerary architecture for the sacred or elite, the craftsmen and architects were so dedicated to the detail that even the pharaohs could approve of their work.  The scarab demonstrated that these facades were not merely superficial.  The symbol carried new meanings on these building that were spiritual and philosophical. 

It must also be acknowledged that clayworkers and builders from this day were having fun in their creations.  A theater or warehouse in the heart of the American prairie with ancient Egyptian symbols on it must have seemed out-of-place or even inappropriate to some people.  Nowadays the erection of a Marcus Theater with such ornamentation would likely stir controversy.  The 1920s was a different time.   There were hundreds of craftsmen in the country that were able to model and sculpt clay by hand for architecture.  The erection of a building was a form of artistic expression.  Many architects and developers knew this and believed that their buildings would mean something for future generations, whether it was inspiration, admiration, or that the quality of their work is a priceless value.  Buildings from this time were also an adventure, or at least an invitation to explore - and some accomplished the experience so well that it could happen just upon seeing them on the street.

Further Reading:
​Scarab Club Detroit
https://ilovedetroitmichigan.com/detroit-architecture/the-scarab-club-detroit-michigan/
​http://blogs.detroitnews.com/history/2013/03/24/the-scarab-club-detroits-artist-hangout-since-1907/

Masonic Temple, Racine
https://wisconsinhistory.org/Records/Property/HI11096
​
Peery's Egyptian Theater, Ogden, Utah
​https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peery%27s_Egyptian_Theater
​
Reebie's Storage Warehouse, Chicago
https://webapps1.chicago.gov/landmarksweb/web/landmarkdetails.htmlanId=1410
https://www.newspapers.com/image/374795362​

Masonic Temple, Salt Lake City
​​https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Salt_Lake_Masonic_Temple

At the end of 2014 I was telling everyone I needed a space.  A new ceramic-shop in West Allis was opening up at the time and it would have been an amazing setup.  Unfortunately it would have been a long bike-ride from Riverwest.  At the same time, three friends from different social groups all told me about Var and this mysterious guy named Josh Hintz.  Eventually I called him and set up a studio visit.  There was one spot left.  I took it immediately.

When I began renting at Var, I started in a 16'x12' space shared with another artist.  It felt tiny, but it was more than I was able to get anywhere else.  The space was under $200 and included 24/7 access, wood shop, kitchenette, regular gallery exhibition opportunities, air conditioning, internet, free admission to events, and the electrical setup and technical maintenance for the kilns.  This was a phenomenal deal!   Again, I was earning little money at the time so this studio arrangement was impressive.  I never went to graduate school either, so having this opportunity seemed unbelievable.

I approached this opportunity very professionally.  I came into the studio nearly every day, kept quiet and did not listen to any music, recorded my hours in a log, and cleaned up when I was done (including washing the floors).  Eventually, though, I loosened up and became more amicable.  

The availability of other artists was a quality that made Var so worthwhile. Many artists were in a similar situation as me with a recently-earned BFA from U.W.M. or MIAD.  Being able to consult with them and hang out was supportive and helped grow my confidence.  It is important to note that while there were other artists working in the same building, we each had our own spaces.

I was also fortunate to be sharing a studio with a beatnik artist who had decades of knowledge and experience in the art and design field.  Even though I recognized his talent and expertise right away, there was a little tension at first.  We both had TONS of supplies and work in a tight space.  I also had dust!  In short time, however, we became best of friends.  And, I learned a lot from him that I would not have been able to gain on my own.  ​

By the time four years passed, I was renting a full-studio, operating under an LLC, self-published a book, developing a new portfolio, and working on commissions.  I was able to grow and challenge myself in a safe environment.  There were plenty of struggles and mistakes I made, pieces I threw out, hours wasted on a failure, but the support-structure at Var helped me overcome those hurdles and continue pursuing my bliss.

Now four years later I am moving out of Var and building my own studio.  This is a tremendous step forward that I am able to take because of the incubator-space-like-quality that Var is.  Any recent graduate from U.W.M. or MIAD would be at a a loss not taking into consideration Var as an option to pursue their art career.  Whether it is to connect with other artists, focus on a portfolio, enter more art exhibitions, have a site to conduct business, or whatever artsy thing you need, Var is an ideal community to give yourself the needed room to grow. 

Last but not least, in addition to all the amazing minds working on their art just steps away from each other, the guidance from owner Josh Hintz is invaluable.  

Now I have moved from Walker's Point and into a new Milwaukee neighborhood, Hawthorn Glen.  It is a tiny neighborhood mostly taken up by a nature-reserve owned by Milwaukee Public Schools.  To the north is Washington Heights.  As depicted, the studio is currently a 2.5 stall garage.  With the help of family (primarily my dad!) and friends, the garage will be transformed into a winter-proof, kiln-safe, ceramic studio this summer.  So yes, the garage door has got to go!

I cannot imagine the journey it would have been to get to this step without all the support from family, friends, and institutions such as UWM SACC, W.P.C.A., and Var (and many others!)   Now the magic is just beginning.  Certainly there will be obstacles, mistakes, and hurdles, but all the experience I have gained in shared studio spaces and renting from Var will make this possible.  

For regular updates on the transformation, please stayed tuned on my bimonthly newsletter.

​An hour is left before the sun sets.  The temperature is just warm enough to walk outside with a sweater and cap, but you can still see your breath.  The air is crisp.  Despite the heavy traffic after work hours, the timing could not be better for witnessing the Legacy Lofts.  On the southern elevation is the grand façade.  Ornamental textures struck by the sunlight produce bold shadows.  While the warehouse structure converted into an apartment-loft building may appear beautiful at all times, it is this time of day that it is "in the spotlight."

"What are you taking a picture of that building?" says a curious pedestrian.  "It's just a building.  What are you going to do with a picture of a building?  Why take a picture?" 
I calmly wait until the kind stranger is finished.  "At this time of day the sun strikes the building and creates these gorgeous shadows."
"Ah yeah.. I see that." says another pedestrian.  Intrigued, she asks, "Are you an Art student?"
"Actually I am an Art teacher!  Pictures are my side-gig."  
We laugh.
"That is so cool!" expresses the pedestrian.

This dialogue is just a snapshot of the wonderful interactions I experience on the street while documenting architectural terra cotta and faience in the Midwest.  While it's often preferrable to take pictures at times when there is little to no traffic, the interactions with other people on the busy streets can make the mission of my work all the more purposeful.  The people I met on the sidewalk perhaps had no idea that the building was worthy of a photograph.  Maybe they did know, but just wanted to discover what I was up too.  This happens to me a lot.  And I am always thrilled to present how meaningful these buildings are to our Milwaukee community. (or in any community!)

The Legacy Lofts in the former Bloomer Ice Cream Company warehouse building is just one the latest building projects in Milwaukee.  This one, however, is special because there is a new building integrated with the renovation of a historic one.  In Milwaukee, we are witnessing this at several sites.  The Bader Philanthropies Headquarters at Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive and Fifth Street was also completed in 2018, renovating the old Green Bay Building.  Garfield Avenue School on Vel R. Phillips Avenue also was renovated and converted in apartments in 2018.  Immediately next to it was also the construction of the Griot Apartments and a new home for America's Black Holocaust Museum. Fatima Laster remodeled the Johnson-Goolsby Funeral Home into the Five Points Art Gallery last year.  Furthermore, the P. H. Gaubatz Building on Center Street and Dr. M.L.K. Jr. Drive was renovated in 2015.  And the Fortress, a former Mayer Boot Company Building, on West Pleasant Avenue is also currently being renovated. 

What is wonderful about all these sites is that the are all on the North Side, many are integrating historic structures with new ones, and they are respecting cultural institutions.  The North Side of Milwaukee is filled with architectural gems.  Many of these buildings are constructed with gorgeous craftsmanship and artistic details.  These trades do not exist in the capacity that they did when these sites were originally built.  It is important to recognize these places because they emphasize the value of these neighborhoods and the worthwhile investment in preserving them.  

The humble building at 700 East Kilbourn Avenue will soon meet its fate.  Its façade, simple and elegant, will unfortunately never resurface to the public eye.  Awaiting a new project, the Ascent, will soon replace this site with a 21-story timber framed residential tower.

There are many small details about this building that draw interest in its survival.  Originally known as the site for Irving Benesch Real Estate and built in 1926.  What is most striking on the exterior are the embellishments made of architectural terra cotta.  The glazes that cover these units are pulsichrome, and feature a mottled effect of various hues, including light green, peach, rose, cranberry red, and buff.  Even though the building is painted white, the layers of paint has slowly been peeling off.  This is one reason why it is strongly advised not to paint terra cotta.  Besides, the natural surface of fired terra cotta is handsome.

As depicted in the last four years, there has been no change at the site.  However, several of the base units on the structure have also been crumbling.  Much of this neglect has been recent.  A black-and-white photograph documenting the façade in a better condition (in 1946) can be see on the Milwaukee Public Library Digital Collections.

As a bicyclist, working in Walker's Point and living in Riverwest, I often use Van Buren Avenue as a route.  Therefore, I notice this building a lot.  I have observed the peeling of the paint.  I have wondered why does it appear vacant?  Why does it seem that nobody maintains the site or improve its curb appeal?  Such mystery has enticed me to wonder about the possibilities of what this space could become. 

​Now that the Ascent is coming, I guess the answer has been made.  Unfortunately, the new apartment project leaves no room to imagine a space that appropriates the old building into a new space.  I realize such a design challenge may be too clingy to the past.  Most concerning is that a small commercial building with historic charm will soon no longer be available to the potential business owner, eager to start a new operation.

If the glazed surface of the terra-cotta units was not out of the ordinary, perhaps it would not be so interesting.  However, it is the fact that the glazes are multi-colored pulsichrome that has given me the impression that this building is worth preserving.  The old idea that "demolitions of grand structures should only occur if the newer building is better and grander" is likely the approach the developers of the Ascent are taking.  Perhaps the renovation costs of the Benesch building are through the roof. At the very least, let it be that the polychromatic units are salvaged and reused in a dignified way (and not as garden ornaments). 

One worthwhile idea could be a display in the lobby of a few carefully selected artifacts from the façade.  These salvaged artifacts could serve as artwork in the new space as well as be symbols of the community and its local history.  Despite the fact that the building will be gone, such a feature would communicate to its tenants and visitors that Milwaukee is a place that values its architecture and its past.  It would also demonstrate that preservation in Milwaukee comes from a genuine place of love for the community.

Construction on this new building is slated for fall 2019.  It is intended to be 238 feet in height and be the tallest mass timber building in the Western hemisphere.  New Land Enterprises are the developer.  Korb + Associates are the architects.  Completion is expected in spring 2021.

Links to articles and notes on Benesch Building and the Ascent:
Old Milwaukee.net Building File
Tom Daykin article from Milwaukee Journal-Sentinel, Oct. 5, 2018
​​Jeramey Jannene article from Urban MKE, Oct. 6, 2018
Plan Development Submittal, Korb + Associates Architects
Official website for new building: ​https://www.ascentmke.com/

The historic commercial and business district at Five Points (where Keefe Avenue, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Port Washington Road, Atkinson Avenue, and Sixth Street meet) is drawing lots of interest.  A once bustling and active intersection for the neighborhood known as Williamsburg Heights, new enterprise is returning.

All the attention is due to newly renovated building at 3300 North Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.  Originally the building was owner to Dr. H. P. Haushaulter.  In recent years it has stood vacant.  In 2016 Bader Philanthropies announced they were moving from the 233 North Water Street in the Historic Third Ward to the present location in 53212.  Denise Wooten of the Milwaukee Neighborhood News Service expressed her gratitude for a major foundation to make its headquarters in an impoverished area of the city.  (Read Urban Milwaukee article here:  https://urbanmilwaukee.com/2016/12/04/op-ed-foundations-move-to-central-city-is-admirable/)   

The renovation has been complete for a few months now and the company is in full operation there.  The choice for Bader Philanthropies to renovate a historic building makes historians like me thrilled.  There are many properties with charm in this business district.  Due to lack of investment in this area, for better or worse, the buildings stand true to their original condition.  This new headquarters of Bader Philanthropies did not look so good before their arrived.  Surely, someone could have demolished the site to build a new structure.  Fortunately the building's foundation was in strong condition.  Besides, there are plenty of vacant properties nearby (although  sometimes it seems like developers are hungry for the demolitions). 

In this case, the building was preserved, and in an excellent way.  This building from 1927 is of interest to Tyjeski Terra Cotta Works because it features architectural terra cotta, likely from the Northwestern Terra Cotta Company.  Furthermore, the glazed surfaces are pulsichrome. 

​Below, in my attempt to be Camilo José Vergara, depicted is the progress of the building between December 2016 to October 2018.  In the first image, you can take note of the paneling covering the windows and doors, as well as the condition of the architectural terra cotta.  On the pilasters was stained red paint.  Metal spikes originally holding a metal signs were left to rust.  Overall, the terra cotta was solid - but its surface was stained and lacked maintenance.

Today, all the original architectural terra cotta remains in place.  And it has not looked this good for decades!   The general contractor, JCP Construction, and the architects Uihlein Wilson Architects deserve an applause.  It is better than I predicted when news came out in 2016.  This renovation shall be a celebrated example of how a historic building with architectural terra cotta can be transformed into a new, contemporary space.

Other recent works in this area have included the Heart & Hope Apartments in 2010 and sculptures by Marina Lee.  There are many historic buildings in this business district that could benefit from some investment.  Hopefully builders can see the value of these buildings and how they have shaped the communities that call this place of Milwaukee home.  All the while, there are vacant lots eager for new builds as well.  This grand intersection is right off the interstate, making its location even more convenient for businesses.  The diversity of properties is wide, hopefully, encouraging new businesses of different sizes to move to this area.  

With a few corner-marts, a gas station, schools, apartments, a barbershop, a correctional institute, and now a non-profit philanthropy organization, the area could benefit from the development of restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries, and retail.  The triangle park at the center of this intersection must really be activated to the neighborhood's advantage.  On the north end of the area, a few new apartment buildings might increase demand and safety to the area as well.

Local terra-cotta buildings also include  F. W. Woolworth 5 & 10 Cents store, an apartment building with Moravian tiles, and a mixed-use structure known as the Hollywood Building.

PAST ARTICLES ABOUT THE CONSTRUCTION OF THE HEADQUARTERS:
Tom Daykin and Bill Glauber, Journal Sentinel, August 3, 2016
Corrinne Hess, Biz Times, January 27, 2017
Bader Philanthropies, Press Release, UrbanMilwaukee, January 27, 2017
​Edgar Mendez, Urban Milwaukee, February 1, 2017
Lauren Anderson, Biz Times, May 8, 2017
​Daily Reporter, May 15, 2017
​Sean Ryan, Milwaukee Business Journal, March 5, 2018
Sean Ryan, Milwaukee Business Journal, September 2, 2018

On Third Street and West Wisconsin Avenue in 1959 was the "Robinson Store" building.  On its small store-building façade was architectural terra cotta manufactured by the American Terra Cotta and Ceramic Company (from Crystal Lake, Illinois).  At this time architectural terra cotta was not experiencing the level of production it had in the 1920s, but the remaining companies were managing their business - barely.  As for Milwaukee, this would be the last installation of such building material.

Since then, I have not been able to find any new installations.  This excludes preservation work such as the installation of new terra cotta by Gladding McBean on the City Hall (finished in December 2014) and others. 

However, now almost 60 years later, a new apartment building is being constructed with a product that works just like historic architectural terra cotta.  Known as The Contour,  it is located on the East Side of Milwaukee at 2214 North Prospect Avenue.  The architects are Rinka Chung Architecture, whose offices are downtown on Mason and Milwaukee Streets.  Let's give them an applause!  

The terra-cotta product is unlike anything that is seen with historical architectural terra cotta.  Traditionally units can be anywhere from four inches to over a foot deep.  This new product is different.  It is thin, longer, and lighter. It is known as "NeaCera terra-cotta cladding solutions."  It is manufactured in Germany, but distributed by Avenere Cladding from Baltimore, Maryland.  The architects had a preference for hiring as local as possible, but this product supported both their design needs and budget.

As described on their website, NeaCera is a "solid wall terra-cotta rainscreen."  They also note that they take the lead in the world for that product.  The specific item Rinka Chung Architecture uses is a "flat standard panel."  This panel is unlike traditional terra-cotta units or ashlar terra cotta that have a cellular, hollow design.  These five-feet panels are solid and thin.  All the while, they carry a low weight at under 50 pounds per panel, or about 7.5 pounds per square foot.  This must be extremely great for builders, as handling these units is much less cumbersome than units made decades ago.  

​The surface of the panels are "Gloss Black" and is the first time this finish has been used in North America.  That is the first time for this NeaCera product.  Amazingly, the black-glazed terra cotta is a motif that has strong heritage here, especially in the East Side.  Local and celebrated architect Herbert Tullgren was no stranger to this material and its creative potential.

Tullgren practiced under the name Martin Tullgren & Sons.  It was his father's company.  He worked alongside with his brother, Minard.  Unfortunately his brother passed in 1928.  He continued practicing architecture and designed many buildings with black-glazed terra cotta.  These surfaces were opaque, semi gloss, and smooth.  They can be found on the Viking Apartments (1931), the Milwaukee-Western Fuel Company Office Building (1933), the Hathaway Tower (1931), and the Armory Courts Building (1931).   While the Armory Courts Building is in Shorewood, the other three are only blocks from the Contour. 

Black-glazed terra cotta also commonly appeared at this time, and can be found on other buildings, including the Grand Warner Theater (1930), the Park Lane Apartments (1930), and the Annason Apartments (1930).  

​With this in mind, it is as if the architects from Rinka Chung are picking up where we left off when terra cotta was last common in Milwaukee's architecture.  The design of the building is contemporary, and the use of the terra cotta is pretty utilitarian.  Their choices of surface, all the while, make it relevant to the city and its beautiful history.  

Now... if Rinka Chung designs an apartment building terra-cotta panels of wolves, dragons, or eagles... I may lose myself!  However, seriously, this is an amazing event for the practice of architectural terra cotta in Milwaukee.  Thank you Rinka Chung Architecture!  

(ENDNOTE - I'd like to mention that Rinka Chung has used this terra-cotta cladding in Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin, however, with a "white" finish.  Stay tuned for future posts!)