The Kubala Washatko Architects

History

Established in 1980 by Tom and Allen, this firm has developed over 40 years, growing to reflect a strong commitment to socially and environmentally responsible practice. In 2018, TKWA became the first design firm to be a Wisconsin Public Benefit Corporation, indicating a dedication to being a positive influence in both local and global contexts.

Philosophy - Wholeness

Wholeness is central to TKWA's worldview and shapes their work process, organizational activities, and interactions with the natural world and communities. This philosophy emphasizes architecture as part of interdependent living systems and underscores their projects and advocacy efforts.

Leadership and Recognition

In 2016, the firm's co-founders entrusted the leadership to five partners, ensuring the firm's principles continue to guide its impact. TKWA was honored with the AIA Firm Award, the highest recognition from the state's professional service organization.

Commitment to Community and Environment

TKWA participates in initiatives like the JUST label, promoting equity, diversity, and transparency in internal practices and making them publicly available. This reflects the firm's commitment to creating a balanced work culture and spaces that honor people, culture, and the planet.

Studio Design

The studio is part of a redevelopment of an industrial warehouse, featuring a modest, yet highly visible and accessible storefront. The redesign removed a former enclosed loading dock area to create an open-air restaurant courtyard, retaining the original metal roof trusses. New storefront window and door openings were introduced to the studio space to enhance natural daylight.

Studio Overview

• Location: Milwaukee, WI
• Scale: Approximately 15,000 square feet
• Status: Completed in 2017

Community Contribution

Beyond its architectural duties, TKWA collaborated with the project owner to conceive a broader vision for the building site, promoting it as a mixed-use space that includes a maker space, restaurants, and office developments. The location also houses other tenants, such as an organic juice company and a malting company which serves the craft brewing industry.

Lists Princeton, Frederick, Allen, Winona, Brookfield, La Crosse, Madison, and Milwaukee as a location. Names Wisconsin as a service area. Areas beyond these are not published.

Cultural Projects

TKWA works with various cultural institutions such as museums, arts organizations, and nature centers. Notable projects include the Madison Children's Museum in Madison, WI, Arts@Large in Milwaukee, WI, and the John Michael Kohler Arts Center in Sheboygan, WI.

Camps and Recreation

The architectural design for camps respects the necessity of investing time in nature as a health benefit and contribution to child development. Projects include the YMCA: Camp Carson in Princeton, IN, and the JCC Rainbow Day Camp in Fredonia, WI.

• Cultural
• Workplace
• Education
• Religious
• Camps
• Hospitality
• Historic
• Residential
• Public Realm
• Sustainability

Notable Projects

TKWA has developed several landmark projects, some of which include:

• Margaux Brasserie in Brookfield, WI
• Hotel Verdant in Racine, WI
• 3rd Street Market Hall in Milwaukee, WI
• Sand Valley Golf Resort in Nekoosa, WI
• Fastenal Corporate Office in Winona, MN
• Frederick C. Bogk House in Milwaukee, WI
• Lakefront Brewery in Milwaukee, WI
• Garver Feed Mill in Madison, WI
• Charmant Hotel in La Crosse, WI
• Milwaukee Public Market in Milwaukee, WI
• Leopold Legacy Center in Baraboo, WI
• Write On, Door County in Juddville, WI