Basilica of St. Josaphat

Client

Franciscan Fathers Minor Conventual of St. Josaphat Church in Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Location

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Size

15,000 SF

Completed

1993 – Present

The Basilica is grand inside and out. Originally built by Polish immigrants in 1888, RAMLOW/STEIN has been fortunate to work on its preservation and restoration for over two decades.

Phase I
Secure the Envelope
Focused on eliminating water infiltration on the stone facades and included re-roofing the copper dome. Replacement of the leading in the stained glass windows was also included, as well as re-gilding of the crosses.

Phase II
Restore the Interior
Restored and enhanced the interior of the main sanctuary, bringing the predella forward into the worship space. Decorative frescoes were magnificently restored through the joint effort of Conrad Schmitt Studios and our firm, with new interior light fixtures by Brass Light Galleries.

Phase III
Expand the Mission
The new Pope John Paul II Pavilion was designed as a seamless addition connected by a corridor to the upper and lower areas of the Basilica. The Pavilion serves as a place to welcome visitors, provides a new and accessible entrance to the church and a specialty gift shop and donor chapel.

Phase IV
Preserve, Restore, and Enhance
Other projects lead by RAMLOW/STEIN include LED lighting, air conditioning, general envelope maintenance and upkeep, and a current project to replace several stone ledges and overhangs that are deteriorated beyond further preservation.

Awards

  • City of Milwaukee Cream of the Cream City Award, 2009
  • Wisconsin Trust for Historic Preservation Special Mention, 1999
  • Milwaukee County Historical Society Preservation Award, 1998
  • Institute of Classical Architecture & Art Arthur Ross Award-Stewardship/Good Manners, 1998
  • Wisconsin Historical Society Historic Preservation Certificate of Commendation, 1995
  • Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission Preservation Award, 1994
  • Historic Milwaukee Incorporated Preservation Award, 1993 & 1994