Founders 3 Real Estate Services has been awarded the leasing assignment for Hardware HQ, a mixed-use development at 1303 N. Vel R. Phillips Drive in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Purchased in 2015 by WiRED Properties and Phelan Development, the building served as National Ace Hardware for nearly 30 years. For more than 65 years prior, it was home to the Charles H. Stehling Company, a major player in Milwaukee’s tanning industry.
Building ownership has worked with Rinka Architects to integrate the history of the buildings with their future as modern office space and dynamic ground floor retail in Haymarket Square, one of Milwaukee’s most vibrant and active neighborhoods.
Consisting of three structures, including Milwaukee Fire Department’s former Engine Co. 2 dating to 1892, a 1910 warehouse building, and a single-story connector building, plans are in place to fully modernize the building, connect the structures with a new glass and steel addition combining the three floors, and add a fourth floor with outdoor patios facing southeast and southwest.
It was announced in 2018 that Milwaukee Motorcycle Co. has committed to more than 14,000 square feet on the first floor of the building for a Milwaukee Harley Davidson downtown location. The showroom space will offer motorcycle and e-bike sales, merchandise, service, and rentals. The balance of the building, approximately 72,125 RSF, is being marketed by the Founders 3 team to retail and office tenants.
Conveniently located on the corner of W. McKinley Ave and N. Vel R. Phillips Ave., Hardware HQ offers immediate access to Fiserv Forum, the Bucks’ Entertainment Block, and the freeway system. Unrivaled building signage and branding opportunities are also available, along with flexible floorplates to accommodate a variety of tenant space requirements.
The Founders 3 office leasing team assigned to the project consists of Ned Purtell, Steve Pape, and Jenna Maguire.
