Baird Center

Milwaukee, WI

DESCRIPTION OF PROJECT:

The $465M, 650,000 SF addition to the existing Convention Center in Milwaukee, Wi.  (formerly known as the Wisconsin Center) transformed the Baird Center into one of the Nation’s most architecturally exhilarating and technologically advanced convention facilities.  It offers 52 meeting rooms, 300,000 square feet of exhibition space, and a stunning rooftop ballroom and terrace with breathtaking views of the city.

MAJOR CHALLENGE:

Most of our work was at high elevations, a lot of it was unique, and the schedule was ultra-aggressive leaving no room for error.  Preplanning and precise execution were the keys to making this a successful project.  Months of preplanning too place in preparation for the installation, including weekly meetings with the essential subcontractors going through all the details ironing out issues well in advance.  Materials were ordered well ahead of time and sequencing was planned in detail. Massive coordination efforts were needed by the foreman with multiple trades working in the same congested areas with many large boom and scissor lifts.  All the advanced preparation paid off though, as the execution for this difficult and high-risk project went flawlessly with no mistakes to cause rework or delays.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Location:

Milwaukee, WI

Scope of Contract:

Cold-Formed Metal Framing, Exterior Sheathing, Linear Metal Ceilings, GFRG, EIFS, Air and Vapor Barrier and Spray Foam.

Architect:

Eppstein Uhen Architects

General Contractor:

Gilbane | Smith Wisconsin Center Expansion, a Joint Venture