Husch Blackwell's Eric Meier recently sat down with Jason Korb of Korb + Associates Architects along with Adam Arndt of Catalyst Construction to talk about their collaboration on the innovative 25-story, 259-unit, $80M Ascent apartment high-rise in downtown Milwaukee. Foundation work is underway for what will be the world’s tallest timber tower, adding to Milwaukee’s mass timber structures. This lumber building process, founded in Austria, provides unique benefits over conventional construction, including lower carbon footprint, sustainable materials and exposed wood interiors. The Ascent timber tower is projected for completion within two years.
Jason is at the forefront of mass timber construction in Wisconsin, if not the United States, and has traveled the world speaking about the Ascent project and the future of mass timber building. During the conversation with Eric and Adam, Jason touched on particular aspects of the Ascent design and approval process, including cutting-edge testing and collaborating with jurisdictional authorities on this unique project.
Adam and Catalyst Construction are coming off the completion of another successful timber project in Milwaukee. Adam shared his perspective on the opportunities, benefits and coordination involved with moving a timber project forward from a construction standpoint.
Many eyes across the globe are following what will be the world’s tallest timber tower. Husch Blackwell’s Construction Academy was fortunate to catch up with the busy schedules of Adam and Jason. We hope you enjoy this discussion and keep track of the Ascent high rise as it joins the Milwaukee skyline.