Milwaukeeans have responded to the redevelopment of the Brewers Hill area. Almost 25% of Phase III of Brewers Hill Commons, called Shoeworks Lofts, sold during pre-grand opening festivities in March.

"Our opening was a huge success," said project manager Brian Columbus. Phase III includes 300 loft, townhome and single-family home units. The community is designed to appeal to young professionals and empty nesters, as well as families who want to live and play in the area."Brewers Hill Commons will be a vibrant community catering to the sophisticated needs of the new urban market," said Columbus. "That market is calling for a mixed-style of dwellings in up-and-coming neighborhoods adjacent to city amenities," he said.

Buyers can take advantage of limited time pre-construction pricing incentives, according to Columbus.Potential buyers should make an appointment to view the loft model or make unit reservations with the sales staff at 414-265-2000. The sales office is located at Hubbard and Brown Streets and is open Saturday through Wednesday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.When all six phases of the development are completed, Brewers Hill Commons will sit atop a 7.5-acre property set on a bluff above the Milwaukee River, providing unique lake, river and city views of downtown.

"We are proud to offer this one-of-a-kind community development just minutes away from downtown," said Paul Dincin, co-principal of Tandem Developers.

Shoe Factory Retread
Shoeworks Lofts will be another adaptive re-use of the former Weyenberger shoe factory. "By adding height to the building," Marks said, "we will create some dramatic city views overlooking the river and the Beer Line B." One-bedroom loft homes start in the low-$100,000 range.

"It will be a great opportunity for young professionals to own a great unit with a contemporary flair," Marks said.

A collection of first-floor homes will offer direct access from the street. Balconies and terraces will be offered in select units, and third-floor units will feature private rooftop decks.

Lofty Neighbors
Dincin and partner Paul Marks are no strangers to the Brewers Hill neighborhood. Last August, the Tandem Developers team completed Phase I of Brewers Hill Commons, called Cobblers Lofts. "It was an extraordinary success," said Dincin, "with total sellout of the 56-unit building exceeding $10 million." The developers converted the old Weyenberger shoe factory into a distinctive urban community featuring views of the city. The six-story stone, brick and timber-beam structure features a popular loft-style look with hardwood floors, large windows and track lighting.

Tandem started construction last May on the Cobblers Townhomes. These eight high-end townhomes are being completed now.

"The Townhomes sold very quickly. We have already sold 75% of them, but there is still time to customize your home," Dincin said.

Starting at about $279,000, the 2,200 square-foot two- and three-bedroom homes are three stories tall, with balconies, private rooftop decks, enclosed patios and attached two-car garages.

Stylish Homes
Rounding out the current phase of development are 17 new single-family homes modeled in the Colonial Revival, Craftsman and Queen Anne styles.

"Single-family homes create a strong sense of community within any master plan," Columbus said. "These unique, new construction homes will incorporate the historic charm of the Brewers Hill neighborhood, while offering a rare opportunity to own a new single-family home with a big yard and modern floor plans within walking distance of downtown Milwaukee."

"Tandem Developers recognizes the value of retaining the charming characteristics of Brewers Hill that have fueled its recent popularity," Columbus said. "The combination of moderate and magnificent homes in a residential urban environment is in keeping with the area’s beginnings." The Brewers Hill Commons sales office is located at 1985 N. Hubbard St. Call 414-265-2000 for more information.