Top Projects of 2025: Hilton Milwaukee Renovation

The Hilton Milwaukee, a National Historic Register property originally built in 1927 as The Schroeder Hotel, underwent a massive multiphase renovation beginning in 2024 under the management of general contractor Tri-North Builders. The $42 million project, owned and operated by Marcus Hotels & Resorts, sought to modernize the Art Deco landmark while preserving its historic character.

The first phase covered 248,800 square feet across more than 550 guestrooms and corridors, completed in just six months with as many as eight floors under construction simultaneously. The second phase addressed over 80,000 square feet of public spaces, including a café, meeting areas and four new ADA restrooms — all while the hotel remained occupied and operational.

The team navigated significant challenges, including an aging infrastructure of structural clay tile that complicated electrical work, which Tri-North self-performed to resolve. Custom millwork was handcrafted to match the building’s original ornate architectural character, and custom cabinetry concealed in-room heating units. Value engineering, such as polishing existing stone rather than replacing bathroom tile, kept the project on budget.

Sustainability improvements included low-flow plumbing fixtures and 495 new fan-coil units with electronically commutated motors. The project was delivered with multiple scopes completed under hours, earning recognition across several industry and local news outlets.

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