The East Town neighborhood in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hosts The Ascent—the world's tallest mass timber structure—combining luxury apartments, retail space, and premium amenities while demonstrating how innovative construction techniques can address urban housing needs sustainably.

Rising 25 stories and spanning 493,000 square feet, The Ascent stands as an architectural marvel completed in just two years after breaking ground in August 2020. The mixed-use development houses 259 luxury apartments and offers residents access to premium amenities including a seventh-floor pool, rooftop bar, cinema, and sky deck.

Designed by Korb & Associates Architects, the building showcases a commitment to sustainable high-rise living while addressing Milwaukee's growing urban housing demands. The structure's biophilic design principles are evident throughout, creating harmony between modern luxury and natural elements.

Flooring Challenges and Solutions

The ambitious nature of this groundbreaking project presented unique flooring challenges that required innovative solutions. Starnet Member H.J. Martin and Son led the installation of over 250,000 square feet of premium flooring throughout the structure, working with materials from Starnet Preferred Vendors including Milliken Commercial, Daltile, and Johnsonite by Tarkett.

The project faced a significant challenge when the initial carpet vendor couldn't deliver materials according to our timeline. Rather than compromise the schedule, the team collaborated with a new vendor who leveraged proprietary printing technology to create a custom solution.

This innovative approach involved printing custom carpet that precisely matched the existing color and design chosen for the spaces. The new carpet incorporated an existing vendor pattern customized with a unique colorway, an upgraded base and backing, and a custom carpet tile size—proving more cost-effective than the originally specified product.

Addressing Moisture Concerns

 The distinctive mass timber architecture of the building presented specific moisture control challenges. The project team utilized products from Bostik, Henry Adhesives, MAPEI, and Uzin Utz North America to ensure proper moisture mitigation throughout the installation process.

The materials used in the new carpet played a role in addressing some of these moisture issues. This showcased the project's adaptability and success in overcoming technical challenges while maintaining the integrity of the design.

Beyond the Installation

The Ascent represents more than just another luxury development—it demonstrates how innovative construction and thoughtful design can create sustainable urban living spaces. The 7,000-square-foot retail component available for lease further enhances the building's community-centric nature.

The relationship between H.J. Martin and Son, the material vendors, and the developer evolved throughout the 10-month installation process. What began as a typical client-contractor relationship has transformed into an ongoing partnership model, creating value for all stakeholders while addressing Milwaukee's urban housing challenges through sustainable innovation.

As Starnet’s Gold Winner in the 2024 Mixed-Use Development category, The Ascent stands as a testament to what can be achieved when innovative design, sustainable materials, and expert installation come together—from its mass timber structure to its carefully selected and installed flooring solutions.