Harbor View Plaza

Milwaukee's Harbor View Plaza stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovative design. This vibrant waterfront space, officially opened in 2019, offers a stunning example of how creative thinking can transform a location into a community hub.

Design Department's Guiding Hand

While the winning design for Harbor View Plaza came from Ayres Associates and Quorum Architects, Design Department played a crucial role in shaping the overall vision. Their expertise in product design likely informed the aesthetic choices, materials selection, and user experience considerations that make the plaza so inviting.

A Blend of Functionality and Fun

The plaza boasts a variety of features that cater to different needs and age groups.

  • A 40-foot lookout tower, constructed from repurposed shipping containers by Containers Up, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the harbor.
  • The area's only handicapped-accessible kayak/canoe launch makes the water more accessible than ever before.
  • A whimsical children's play structure, designed with input from Design Department, features water play elements and encourages exploration.
  • Inviting seating areas provide a place to relax and soak up the fresh lake air.
  • Decorative gates by Gallas Metalworks add a touch of nautical charm, further enhancing the waterfront ambiance.

Sustainability in Mind

Design Department's focus on thoughtful design extends to environmental responsibility. The plaza incorporates a sustainable stormwater management system that captures rainwater for reuse in the unique water play area, promoting water conservation.

A Community Effort

Harbor View Plaza is a true collaborative success story. The project involved the expertise of multiple entities, including:

  • Ayres Associates and Quorum Architects: Winners of the design competition.
  • Harbor District, Inc.: Overseeing the project's development.
  • Containers UP: A premier designer and builder of customized, upcycled shipping containers.
  • Rockwell Automation: A major donor and local business invested in the community.
  • Design Department: Contributing to the overall vision and user experience.
  • Other donors and supporters: Providing financial backing to make the project a reality.

A Beacon for the Future

Harbor View Plaza serves as an inspiration for future waterfront development projects. It demonstrates how thoughtful design, community collaboration, and sustainable practices can create a vibrant public space that enhances the lives of residents and visitors alike.

* Photos via this article.

Play structure made from shipping containers
A whimsical children's play structure, designed with input from Design Department, features water play elements and encourages exploration.
Milwaukee's Harbor View Plaza stands as a testament to the power of collaboration and innovative design.
The plaza boasts a variety of features that cater to different needs and age groups.
A 40-foot lookout tower made from repurposed shipping containers offers panoramic views of Milwaukee's Harbor District.