Carroll University’s plan to replace nonhistoric building on Barstow wins commission approval

The Waukesha Landmarks Restoration Commission on April 8 approved Carroll University’s request to demolish a nonhistoric physical‑therapy building at 245 North Barstow Street and replace it with a three‑story Sullivan School of Business, Engineering and Technology building.

Staff described the existing one‑story metal building and showed renderings and material samples for the proposed structure, which uses tan masonry siding, red roofing and stepped massing to reduce the building’s presence at the street. The applicant noted the design draws on nearby historic campus buildings — Old Main Hall, Rankin Hall and Voorhees Hall — but uses modern glass and a different siding so the new building “doesn’t necessarily look like it’s trying to mimic” the historic structures, staff said.

An architect for the project answered commissioners’ questions about site placement and pedestrian safety, and an attendee who identified himself as an alumnus told the commission he supported the project, saying it would address plumbing and ADA needs and “raise the beauty of the entire neighborhood.” The applicant said construction is expected to begin in June 2026 with completion targeted for August 2027.

Commissioners moved to approve Certificate of Appropriateness ID 2603186 for the proposed Sullivan School at 245 N. Barstow; the motion carried on a voice vote (four ayes). Approvals will remain subject to any county and State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO) compliance reviews required by staff.