Power House
Established 2023
The original Power House, built in 1909, is no longer standing; however, the foundations of Buildings 27 and 28 were repurposed for the new Power House. The initial plan was to transform the one-story, 9,180-square-foot power plant into three floors, accommodating 20 apartments. However, the structure sustained significant damage when the roof collapsed under the weight of heavy snow. As a nod to the original design, green subway tile is featured in the kitchens of just four select units and throughout the garden level of the building.
The name “Power House” comes from the engine room and boiler house that once occupied the space. This is where all the central power sources that supplied electricity to operate all the different equipment used in the leather tanning process. Before widespread access to electricity, multiple power houses were distributed across the facility, including one that was once connected to the Beam House.
After the tannery era and before the property became RPL, the space operated as a business and industrial park. In 1985, Sprecher Brewery opened Wisconsin's first microbrewery in the west wing of the Power House, formerly the chemical building, which was the most heavily built structure in the Pfister and Vogel tannery complex. This location became the birthplace of the classic Milwaukee tradition of brewery tours. However, in 1993, a canal retainer wall collapsed into the Menomonee River due to tugboats pushing cement barges, leading the brewery to relocate.
This final addition embodies a modern interpretation of historical architecture. Like other lofts on the property, the units feature oversized windows, and lofted ceilings. Layouts include one and two bedroom options. The kitchens feature granite countertops, range hoods, piano matte black cabinets, and stainless steel appliances. Upgraded units include additional features such as slide-in ranges and French door refrigerators. Unlike the other buildings, select units also offer large balconies with stunning views of the Menomonee River.
Building amenities include an indoor heated parking garage, a club room with a full kitchen, a conference room, a yoga studio, a golf simulator, a cardio room, and an expansive rooftop patio complete with three gas grills and two gas fire pits.
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