Mayor Tom Barrett honors Nelson Schmidt Inc. for architectural and design excellence

Milwaukee, WI – (May 25, 2015) – Dan Nelson, Jr., president and CEO of global marketing agency Nelson Schmidt Inc., recently accepted a 2015 Mayor’s Design Award for the renovation and revitalization of the historic 600 East building in downtown Milwaukee. The building houses the agency’s Milwaukee headquarters, as well as the 600 East Café and Business Center on the first floor.

The award honors projects that add value to the neighborhood by restoring, constructing or enhancing properties in a way that respects the urban fabric and contributes to the character of the surroundings. The project was recognized in the “Test of Time” category.

“It’s an incredible honor to be among the prestigious group of recipients of the 2015 Design Award,” said Nelson. “When the opportunity to reclaim a piece of history in my hometown presented itself, there was no question what we had to do. That decision resulted in an impressive Milwaukee headquarters for the agency, and a vibrant public café on the first floor that connects us to the community around us. We couldn’t be more pleased.”

The building was the original 1913 Wisconsin Gas Co. headquarters, which Nelson purchased in 2006. After an extensive renovation of the space, the agency moved into the upstairs office space and the café opened to the public; office and meeting space is also available for rent on the first floor. The renovation exposed original architectural elements of the building, including cream city brick walls and steel beams.

The Mayor’s Design Award was presented by Mayor Tom Barrett at the University of Milwaukee School of Architecture and Urban Planning. To see the other winners, visit the City of Milwaukee website. To learn more about the agency, its work and employment opportunities, visit NelsonSchmidt.com.