10 Year Wrap Up: Growth Milestones

This year marks a major milestone—10 years in business and the growth of Thrive into a mid-size architectural practice with 14 talented professionals. We welcomed three new team members and had the chance to work with two incredible summer interns.

Over the summer, Cadence Gabel (University of Idaho) and Jorden Romano (WCTC Architecture) brought great talent to our team. We’re excited that Jorden chose to stay on full-time as an Architectural Associate.

We also added two new designers to our Waukesha office:

• Beth Bokelman, Interior Designer — leading the development of our expanding interior design services.

• Erik Semb, Project Manager — returning to Thrive after completing his M.Arch at UW–Milwaukee and gaining experience in Denver.

As we continue to grow, we’re aligning our capabilities with larger, high-end developments and seeking stronger design opportunities. One key step in that evolution is expanding our in-house expertise.

With Beth on board, Thrive is now officially offering in-house Interior Design services—a move that elevates our design capabilities, strengthens collaboration, and ensures every project begins with a unified vision.

Expanding interior design is one more way we’re HELPING OUR CLIENTS THRIVE.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #WisconsinBusiness #CommercialArchitecture #InteriorDesign #MidwestDesign #10YearsOfThrive #ArchitecturalDesign #DesignThatThrives #ArchitectureFirm #WaukeshaWI #AppletonWI #MadisonWI #ADecadeOfDesign #GrowingTogether

10 Year Wrap Up: Our Beginnings

What started in 2008 as Jeremy Bartlett taking on selective design projects became a full-time leap in 2015—and Thrive Architects was officially born.

From a home office to our Waukesha Corporate Office (2016), then Appleton (2020) and Madison (2023), our growth has been shaped by incredible clients and a talented team across Wisconsin.

Now with three offices and a decade of full-time practice, we’re proud to continue designing spaces that truly thrive.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #WisconsinBusiness #CommercialArchitecture #MidwestDesign #10YearsOfThrive #ArchitecturalDesign #DesignThatThrives #ArchitectureFirm #WaukeshaWI #AppletonWI #MadisonWI #ADecadeOfDesign #GrowingTogether

 

Welcome Beth Bokelman to Thrive Architects

We are extremely excited to welcome Beth to our team. Her depth of experience and collaborative spirit make her a key addition as we continue to grow our interior design practice and expand the services we offer our clients.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #TeamGrowth 

Cheers to Nathan’s Work Anniversary!

Join us in celebrating Nathan Hirt, who has been an invaluable part of the Thrive Architects team since 2023! Over the past year(s), Nathan has brought curiosity, dedication, and a strong design mindset to every project he touches.

His contributions span a wide range of community and commercial projects, with standout work on Evin Phase II in Oconomowoc, where his attention to detail and commitment to quality will make a significant impact on the project’s success. His experience also includes key roles on Diamond Visions in Oak Creek, the City of Waukesha Badger Drive Transit facility, the Stor-it Right in Oconomowoc, Phase II, and the Lighthouse School Addition in Madison.

Nathan’s thoughtful approach, attention to detail, and willingness to jump into any challenge have made him a valued member of our team. We’re grateful to have him at Thrive and excited to see all he will continue to accomplish!

Happy Work Anniversary, Nathan!

 

#ThriveTeam #AnniversaryCelebration #TeamSpotlight #ArchitectureLife #WorkAnniversary #ArchitecturalDesign #MilwaukeeArchitecture 

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Bars & Recreation, West Allis

Thrive Architects is pleased to highlight the remodel of Bars & Recreation’s 12,000 square feet West Allis location, designed to strengthen the guest experience and support a highly efficient operational layout.

The reimagined 10,200 S.F. first floor and 1,800 S.F. mezzanine establish a cohesive environment that balances entertainment, circulation, and brand identity.

Our team focused on:

• Enhancing spatial flow through strategic reorganization of activity areas, bar zones, and connective pathways.

• Improving visibility and openness by integrating clear sightlines between the main level and mezzanine.

• Selecting durable, brand-forward materials that align with Bars & Rec’s energetic and industrial character.

We appreciate the opportunity to collaborate with Bars & Recreation in bringing this one-of-a-kind dynamic venue to life.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #BarsNRecreation #HospitalityDesign #YouWillShootYourEyeOut #WestAllisWisconsin

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Milestone Pediatrics

Thrive Architects is proud to showcase the interior alterations for Milestone Pediatrics, a 4,267 sq ft clinic remodel in Waukesha, completed in 2022. Our team transformed the existing office space into a highly efficient and child-focused healthcare environment, balancing durability, wayfinding, and playful design.

The updated floor plan improves clinical workflow with 12 exam rooms, a centralized nurse station, lab and triage rooms, and a dedicated lactation room to support family needs. Clear circulation paths and strategically located staff zones enhance wayfinding, visibility, and care coordination.

The interior design features the Milestone Pediatrics brand with bold lime green and teal accents paired with clean, modern finishes. An added touch of creative vinyl graphics to create an engaging, kid-friendly atmosphere can be seen throughout the clinic.

We're grateful for the trust this amazing client showed us by allowing us to reimagine their space.

CLIENT: Milestone Pediatrics
CONTRACTOR: Duffek Construction

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #MilestonePediatrics #WaukeshaWI #HealthcareDesign

Welcome Erik Semb!

 

This Thanksgiving, our team is especially grateful to welcome Erik Semb.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #TeamGrowth