In the shadow of the nearly completed Northwestern Mutual Tower, a second skyscraper is finally lifting off the ground at Mason Street and Van Buren Street.

In the shadow of the nearly completed Northwestern Mutual Tower, a second skyscraper is finally lifting off the ground at Mason Street and Van Buren Street.

Northwestern Mutual’s mixed-use Van Buren Tower is in the early stages of construction, for a completion date expected in the Spring of 2018. With foundation pours underway, the 34 floors will feature retail space, penthouses, apartments, a rooftop pool, and much needed parking for the company’s workforce.

Encompassing a city block that was formerly the location of the historic Vermont Apartments built in 1898, the cream city brick landmark was one of several demolished earlier this year to may way for the project.

The site is undergoing a sweeping change, in parallel with other areas of downtown Milwaukee, and the $100 million 777 North Van Buren Building will be the latest addition to the transforming skyline.

Taken in January, March, and November, the images of this photo essay show the spot before and after demolition, and with construction beginning.

They capture a year long transitional moment of the construction boom of 2016, and document history in the making between Milwaukee’s past, present, and future.

Van Buren Street Area: Before Demolition – January

Van Buren Street Area: Vermont Apartments Demolition – March

Van Buren Street Area: Rendering of 777 North Van Buren Building

© Photo

Lee Matz