A historic stage deserves spaces behind the scenes that work just as hard.
At the Fischer Theatre in Danville, we are helping transform the back stage areas to better support performers and staff. New dressing rooms, restrooms, green room lounges, and storage will provide the function this historic venue has long needed.
The design carries the character of the theatre forward by incorporating historic casing and molding while introducing fresh, durable finishes that serve today’s demands.
Supporting the experience on stage starts with what happens off stage. We are proud to be part of the next chapter of the Fischer.
A sunny site visit to Northwestern Steel and Wire Park with Erin O’Keefe as construction wraps up and the punch list gets its final check marks. Seeing play spaces, paths, and community areas ready for action is always a good day on the job.
Almost time for this park to be full of movement, laughter, and community life.
📍 Northwestern Steel and Wire Park, Sterling, IL
@sterlingparkdistrict
Some projects stand out because of the people behind them.
Ashley and Jen recently visited the completed Rochelle Pocket Park and took a moment to reconnect with Michelle at the City of Rochelle. A big thanks to her and the City for the trust, openness, and positive partnership that they consistently bring to the table.
We’ve worked with the City of Rochelle on multiple projects, and each time we are reminded how lucky we are to collaborate with clients who truly care about their community and the long-term success of their spaces.
Shoutout to @fehrgraham for partnering with us on civil engineering and landscape architecture.
New on the Journal
At the beginning of 2025, Studio GWA partnered with the City of Viroqua on two coordinated planning efforts focused on outdoor recreation and historic preservation. Both plans were adopted at the end of 2025 and now serve as actionable tools guiding policy, investment, and grant eligibility.
When planning documents work together, communities gain clarity, momentum, and confidence in the future of their assets.
Read more on the Journal. Link in bio.
It was a beautiful day at Taliesin to talk about all things housing & historic preservation!
Yesterday, Aaron and Ashley spent the day with other passionate architects, consultants, and developers, talking about historic preservation and housing. The Wisconsin Trust for Historic Preservation delivered a dynamic day of inspirational conversations in an equally inspirational setting!
We are proud to share that the City of Milton 2046 Comprehensive Plan has been completed and officially adopted.
This plan sets a clear framework for Milton’s future, guiding growth across land use, housing, transportation, economic development, and more while honoring what makes the community unique.
We partnered with Redevelopment Resources to deliver a plan shaped by months of meaningful community engagement, strategic visioning, and collaborative planning.
One of our favorite discoveries in Milton was its two downtowns, each with its own character, sense of place, and a wonderful collection of historic buildings. A true reminder that thoughtful planning can celebrate the past while preparing for the future.
Have you heard the news? Our Monroe office has a new home.
We have officially relocated our Monroe studio to 1815 10th Street, just steps from the Square. We are not new to Monroe, but we are excited to be settled into a space that feels especially fitting for our work and our values.
This former garage has been thoughtfully adaptively reused into a creative studio, proving once again that old buildings still matter. Located in a walkable neighborhood and full of character, it is exactly the kind of place we love working in.
Our Rockford office remains our home base, while this Monroe location continues to support our work throughout southern Wisconsin and the broader region. Our team recently stopped by to spend time in the new space, and we could not be happier with the results.
If you are in Monroe, stop by and say hi sometime.
Recent studio life.
Touring historic buildings, meeting with future partners, and taking time to celebrate together along the way. Our work is rooted in place, collaboration, and the people who make it happen.
#StudioGWA #Architecture #Planning #HistoricPreservation #TaxCredits #StudioLife
A fresh exterior goes beyond a coat of paint. For this concept study, we looked at color palettes, material transitions, lighting accents, and window design to help our client reimagine their building with a clearer identity and a more intentional street presence.
LATE BUT FULL OF GRATITUDE
This one is arriving to the feed a bit late, but our appreciation is very much on time. Our team was proud to attend Preservation Forward, where so many dedicated partners, advocates, and innovators were recognized for their commitment to saving and strengthening our historic places.
Honored to be part of this community.