Johnson Financial Group's West Milwaukee Branch Wins MBJs Real Estate Award for Retail - New Construction
Enhancing services and versatility — Johnson Financial Group - West Milwaukee branch
At a Glance
- Johnson Financial has been investing in branch renovations and new locations.
- Its new full-service branch just south of American Family Field offers banking, wealth and mortgage services.
- The branch has a dual-entry approach resulting in a distinctive building with architectural appeal from all angles.
Project: Johnson Financial Group - West Milwaukee branch
Category: Retail - New Construction
Location: 4319 W. National Ave., West Milwaukee
At a time when many banks are shrinking their physical branch footprints, Johnson Financial Group has been investing in branch renovations and building new locations.
Its new West Milwaukee office on National Avenue is a case in point. Opened in mid-2024 just south of American Family Field, the 4,500-square-foot location is a full-service branch offering banking, wealth and mortgage services. The firm previously had a mortgage office nearby at 1310 Miller Park Way.
The new branch offers expanded services including dual ATM access from the lobby and a drive-thru to address customer preferences for cash transactions. The interior layout promotes efficient traffic flow while maintaining a welcoming, approachable atmosphere that encourages community interaction. The facility also features enhanced security measures such as seamlessly integrated bullet-resistant glass.
Perhaps most notably, the branch features a versatile space to host educational seminars on topics such as first-time home buying and savings strategies. The space reflects the community’s need for education and financial empowerment, and demonstrates Johnson Financial Group’s commitment to fostering financial literacy and supporting long-term community growth. Additionally, several branch associates are bilingual in English and Spanish, uniquely equipped to help the community with their financial needs.
Architectural firm The Redmond Co. designed the branch location with a focus on supporting operational efficiency and meaningful community engagement.
Faced with unique municipal challenges, the design team created an innovative solution for the branch with two distinct entry points: one facing the street as required by village ordinances and another from the parking area for customer convenience. This dual-entry approach resulted in a distinctive building with architectural appeal from all angles.
Having previously worked with Johnson Financial Group on projects including the bank’s $8 million flagship office in downtown Milwaukee, The Redmond Co. has an established knowledge of Johnson Financial Group’s brand and preferences. This experience allowed The Redmond Co. to efficiently manage finish selections and casework specifications, allowing them to focus on exterior architectural elements and intricate design details while maintaining the project timeline.
Racine-based Johnson Financial is among the largest private companies based in the Milwaukee area, with $289.52 million in revenue in its latest fiscal year and 597 local staff, according to Business Journal research published in October 2024. It includes Johnson Wealth and a banking subsidiary, Johnson Bank.
Other recent Johnson Financial Group projects have included a new Delafield office at 2675 Sun Valley Drive and a renovation to its office at 1555 W. Mequon Road in Mequon.
Team
Owner: Johnson Financial Group
General Contractor: MSI General
Architect: The Redmond Co.