10 Years of Designing for Care and Community

From its humble beginnings as a home-based startup Architectural practice to a Thriving full-service design practice with over 1,000 projects completed, 3 Offices and a Team of Experienced Designers - now that’s worth celebrating!

Shaped by our values over the past 10 years, Thrive Architects has transformed our client’s vision into well-curated, purposeful spaces that are centered on everyday life/use.

We’re grateful for the partners, clients, and communities who made it possible.
And if you’re planning what’s next, we’d love to help you build it.

Reach out and let’s start the conversation.

10 Year Wrap Up: 2015-2025

“As we conclude our 10th year at Thrive Architects, we’re grateful—for the clients who trust us, the partners who elevate every project, and the team that brings design to life. 2025 brought growth, creativity, and meaningful work across the communities we serve. Here’s to the next chapter.”

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

DESIGN IN PROGRESS | Genesee Community Services

We’re excited to share a first look at the upcoming interior transformation for Genesee Community Services. This 8,760 SF renovation reimagines the space to better support learning, play, and daily operations—thoughtfully organized with new classrooms, breakout spaces, conference rooms, a lunch room, inside play area, and flexible office spaces.

The design also integrates unisex, boys, and girls restrooms, a laundry room, and built-in cubbies with counters and upper cabinetry to support organized, kid-friendly storage throughout. New skylights will introduce natural light, while keyless entry systems enhance safety and accessibility.

Exterior updates include painted brick and a new 1,136 SF outdoor play area enclosed by a white privacy fence and finished with poured-in-place rubber flooring—creating a secure and engaging environment for active play.

We look forward to seeing this project come to life as construction progresses.

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #GeneseeCommunityServices #MilwaukeeWisconsin #EducationalDesign

10 Year Wrap Up: Community + Partnerships

Supporting our communities is at the heart of Thrive. Across all three offices, we’re proud to invest time, talent, and partnership into the regions we serve.

WAUKESHA OFFICE: We’re proud to have completed the renovation for White Stone Community Church, creating a refreshed space for their growing congregation. Our Waukesha team also stays deeply connected to the community through involvement in:

• Waukesha County Business Alliance

• Muskego Planning Commission

• Waukesha Area Chamber of Commerce (WAC)

• West Allis Plan Commission

• West Allis Capital Improvement Committee

APPLETON OFFICE: Our Appleton team continues its commitment to the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, while strengthening regional relationships and investing in local chambers from Green Bay to Oshkosh.

MADISON OFFICE: In Madison, our team remains actively engaged with Downtown Madison Inc., contributing to conversations that shape the city’s future.

We value the partnerships that strengthen our communities—and we’re grateful to be part of the work happening across Wisconsin.

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

10 Year Wrap Up: Projects

Across all three offices, our team delivered meaningful work through the years—each project shaped by the communities we serve. Here’s a few we worked on during 2025.

WAUKESHA OFFICE: Construction is underway on Phase II of Evin at Oconomowoc, a $16 million expansion delivering modern independent and assisted living residences in a scenic golf-course setting. The team is also leading the design of a new multi-tenant office building in Big Bend, which will soon welcome Virtue Dental along with future tenants. Additional work includes the two-phase expansion of White Stone Community Church, creating enhanced gathering space for the congregation, and The Grand Castle Hills Senior Living—a $14.3 million project that added 55 residential units, a green room, home theater, and rooftop patio designed to foster connection and community among residents.

APPLETON OFFICE: The Appleton team has been hard at work designing a new church in Green Bay and collaborating on multiple projects with the Oneida and Menominee Nations. They also completed design work for a Park Pavilion and Concession Building for the Village of Hortonville.

MADISON OFFICE: Our Madison team recently completed an addition for Lighthouse Christian School and continues ongoing work with Dental Health Associates throughout Dane County.

We’re proud of the impact these projects have—and energized for what’s ahead in the next decade.  

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

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

PROJECT SPOTLIGHT: Branshaw Orthodontics

Thrive Architects is proud to showcase the newly completed first-time interior build-out for Branshaw Orthodontics, located at 17135 West Capitol Drive Suite 100 in Brookfield. This 3,180 sq ft project transformed a blank interior into an open treatment area featuring six chairs designed for an efficient, collaborative patient experience, complemented by additional chairs in a private consult room.

Soothing blue tones throughout the office promote comfort and relaxation, while crisp white cabinetry and countertops provide a clean, modern foundation. Warm wood accents and rich brown leather seating introduce an inviting balance, and frosted glass cabinetry paired with sleek black metal details—including the signature barn-door feature—adds a refined, contemporary touch.

We are truly grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with this client, help bring their vision to life, and extend our best wishes to Dr. Branshaw as his practice continues to grow. 

CLIENT: Dr. Branshaw

CONTRACTOR: Ashcroft Construction

ARCHITECT: Thrive Architects

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #BranshawOrthodontics #MilwaukeeWisconsin #DentalDesign #ThreeSeventeenPhotographyLLC 

Bird's Eye View at Evin in Oconomowoc!

A new perspective on progress at Evin at Oconomowoc – Phase II. From above, the scale and connection of the expansion begin to take shape — a continuation of Thrive’s and Matter Development’s shared commitment to purposeful design, comfort, and community.

 

OWNER: Matter Development 

ARCHITECT: Thrive Architects

CIVIL ENGINEERING: Pinnacle Engineering Group

STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING Pierce Engineering

INTERIOR DESIGNER: O&O Studio

CONTRACTOR: Catalyst Construction

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #EvinOconomowoc #CommunityArchitecture #CommercialArchitecture #SeniorLivingDesign #SeniorLiving

PROGRESS UPDATE: Big Bend Development – Big Bend, WI

There’s nothing quite like seeing design ideas take shape in real time! The Big Bend Development is making exciting progress, with framing well underway and the building beginning to reveal its form along Highway 164.

Once complete, the 11,840-square-foot development will feature a 3,545-square-foot dental office and 8,295 square feet of tenant space — designed to serve the growing needs of the Big Bend community.

Thrive Architects is proud to see another project move from plans to reality!

CLIENT: Max Meinerz, GG 004 LLC

CONTRACTOR: Level Up Construction

ARCHITECT: Thrive Architects

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT: Insite Landscape Design

CIVIL ENGINEER: RA Smith

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Core4 Engineering

#ThriveArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #UnderConstruction #BigBendWI #DentalDesign #ArchitectureInProgress #ThriveDesigns 

Fetch, Play + Sip Now Open!

Congratulations to Fetch, Play + Sip on their grand opening in the Fox Valley!

 

Thrive Architects is proud to have designed the interior of this innovative indoor dog park, café, and bar — a space that reimagines community connection through the joy of play. The design merges industrial character with natural warmth, drawing inspiration from the owner’s brand and the beauty of Wisconsin’s outdoor landscapes.

 

We’re honored to see this creative vision come to life and can’t wait to watch it thrive!

 

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #InspirationalBoard #MoodBoard #Wisconsin #FetchPlaySip #GrandChuteWisconsin #DogFriendlyDesign #InteriorInspo #DogParkGoals #WIWeatherProof #DogLoversUnite