Friday, June 20, 2025

Designed for Thrill. Built for Legacy.

Randy’s Thrill Hill stands as one of our most daring and dynamic recreational projects to date — now open at Bear Paw Adventure Park in Caledonia, WI. Designed and brought to life by our team, in collaboration with Susan Lasecki of Ionic Structures and Design, this monumental attraction pushes the boundaries of both engineering and emotion.


At 70 feet tall, with a 250-foot Super Mega Slide and a 50-foot vertical drop, it’s the tallest and fastest of its kind in the Midwest, reaching speeds up to 30 mph. But more than a thrill ride, this is a tribute to the late Randy Isaacson — the visionary behind Bear Paw and Jellystone Park™ Caledonia — whose passion built these parks into cherished family destinations.


The structure features high-strength galvanized steel and impact-resistant polyethylene panels, engineered for durability and a smooth, high-velocity ride. The 38-degree launch angle was precisely calculated for peak excitement, and LED lighting along the stairs and platform transforms the hill into a nighttime beacon. A custom-designed canopy at the top reflects the rustic architecture of Bear Paw, seamlessly blending with the park’s character.


From panoramic views at the peak to the adrenaline-pumping descent, every detail of Randy’s Thrill Hill was crafted to honor a legacy — and inspire new memories for years to come.


Structural Engineer: Ionic Structures and Design, Llc


#ThriveArchitects #ArchitecturalSpotlight #LegacyInDesign #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #IonicStructuresandDesign #JellystonePark #BearPawAdventurePark #RandysThrillHill #ThrillDesign #CaledoniaWI #CampingSeason #SlideIntoSummer #MidwestAttractions

Tuesday, June 17, 2025

Welcome Our Newest Architectural Intern - Jorden Romano


Thrive Architects LLC is excited to welcome Jorden Romano to our Waukesha office as our summer intern!

Jorden is entering his final year at Waukesha County Technical College, where he is pursuing an associate degree in Architectural Drafting and Interior Design. His passion for architecture and computer modeling began in high school, where introductory courses sparked his interest and set him on the path toward a career in the built environment.

Outside the office, Jorden is an avid animal lover and proud owner of a chocolate lab named Scout. He enjoys spending time outdoors, especially fishing and riding his motorcycle whenever possible.

We’re thrilled to have him on the team and look forward to supporting his continued growth as he gains hands-on experience with us this summer!

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #TeamGrowth #Internship

Monday, June 16, 2025

Welcome Our Newest Architectural Intern - Cadence Gabel

 

Thrive Architects LLC is thrilled to welcome Cadence Gabel to our Appleton office as our newest intern.

Cadence is entering her senior year at the University of Idaho, where she studies architecture and competes as a Division I NCAA swimmer.

Her passion for architecture is rooted in creativity, problem-solving, and a deep commitment to community impact—whether through human-centered design, environmental stewardship, or thoughtful restoration.

Cadence has already distinguished herself as a finalist in the 2025 ICMA Design Competition (CMU) and received an honorable mention in the 2025 IFPC Mass Timber Design Competition.

We’re excited to support her journey and watch her thrive!

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #TeamGrowth #Internship

Friday, June 13, 2025

Exciting Progress at Waukesha State Bank – Fox Run Branch!

 


Construction is officially underway at the Fox Run branch, and it’s thrilling to watch the transformation begin to take shape. This highly anticipated renovation is bringing a fresh, modern update to the building—both inside and out.


Inside, the space is evolving to better serve staff and customers alike. The remodel includes four new offices, an expanded break room and teller areas, and the addition of a counting room and coupon room for improved functionality.


A 1,600-square-foot addition is also coming to life, introducing a spacious new vestibule, accessible restrooms, a large Manager’s office, and a versatile Community Room. The entrance will be more prominent and inviting, designed to echo the distinctive character of the Racine Avenue branch, creating a more welcoming, cohesive presence.


In total, 2,795 square feet of renovations and additions are coming together—and we’re excited to see the building form with each passing day. 

Stay tuned for more construction milestones!


CONTRACTOR: OneSource Construction


#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #WaukeshaStateBank #FoxRunBranch #BankUpdate #WaukeshaWisconsin #Financial #UnderConstruction #CommunityDriven


Monday, June 9, 2025

Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin is Expanding

 

The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin is expanding their Wolf River Community-Based Residential Facility (CBRF), reinforcing its commitment to compassionate care for their Elders. This nearly 12,000-square-foot addition spans both the first floor and basement, thoughtfully designed to enhance resident experience and operational functionality. The main level will add 8 memory care rooms, a centralized nursing station, and a dedicated memory care dining space that promotes comfort and connection. The existing facility will also be undergoing a remodel to create additional accessible resident rooms and updated bathing rooms.  The kitchen will be getting upgraded appliances to accommodate the growing population, and the existing dining area will get a refresh as well. The basement will support staff and facility needs with new resident storage areas, fire protection upgrades, and maintenance areas. Complementing the building expansion, a detached garage will be constructed to support facility operations. New landscaping elements—featuring a serene garden and outdoor patio—will enrich the site, offering therapeutic outdoor spaces for residents and visitors alike.



We are excited to watch as this addition goes up!


CLIENT: Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin

ARCHITECT: Thrive Architects 

STRUCTURAL ENGINEER: Bloom Companies 

CIVIL ENGINEER: Oneida Engineering Solutions (OES)

MECHANICAL, ELECTRICAL PLUMBING & FIRE PROTECTION: Thunderbird Engineering

GENERAL CONTRACT: Bayland Buildings


#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #WolfRiverCBRF #SeniorLiving #MenomineeIndianTribeWisconsin

Tuesday, June 3, 2025

🎉Exciting things are happening in Big Bend, WI!🎉




We’re proud to share the preliminary renderings and site plan for a brand-new 12,000-square-foot medical development coming to the area.

Designed with functionality, patient experience, and community accessibility in mind, this project marks an important step forward in local healthcare infrastructure.

Stay tuned as we watch this vision take shape — we can’t wait to see how this space transforms from blueprint to reality!

#ThriveArchitects #MilwaukeeArchitects #WisconsinArchitects #CommercialArchitecture #BigBendWI #ArchitectureInProgress #HealthcareDesign #ArchitectsAtWork #SitePlanReveal #MedicalDevelopment #CommunityGrowth