The Cudahy Condominiums was built by Milwaukee meatpacker Patrick Cudahy in 1908-1909 and designed by prominent Milwaukee architects Ferry and Clas. It is a prominent and elegant historic landmark on Milwaukee’s lakefront. The large residential complex has loadbearing masonry walls clad with white glazed brick and ornate terra cotta, with especially interesting terra cotta decoration at the building entrances, balconies, and cornice.
 

Based on observation of cracks and other visible deterioration, the Condominium Owner’s Association sought to better understand the condition of the building exterior. Our team was selected by the Association to perform a condition assessment of the facades, assist with planning and budgeting repairs, and design and manage a project to implement the recommended repairs. The project is made challenging by previous repairs which disguise the actual condition of the facades, many years of water infiltration into the masonry parapet and cornice, and the integration of corrodible steel with large projecting terra cotta units.
 

K&H performed a detailed assessment of the facades, with particular focus on features which are more susceptible to deterioration from weathering, such as the cornice and other projecting/decorative terra cotta elements. During the assessment, K&H planned and coordinated a program of invasive inspection openings to understand concealed conditions and document as-built construction detailing. After reviewing assessment reports and construction cost estimates with the Association, K&H prepared construction documents for the repairs, managed competitive bidding, and is currently providing services during construction. The current phase of the project primarily includes restoration of the building’s parapet and cornice, ensuring that this beautiful building can continue to grace Milwaukee’s lakefront for another 100 years.