How happy has New Land Enterprises been with its project to build the world’s tallest mass timber tower in Milwaukee? So much so that it’s taking the idea to other cities.
The 284-foot Ascent, which uses eco-friendly wood beams instead of steel, made headlines worldwide when it opened at 700 E. Kilbourn Ave. last July. At the end of January, the apartment building was over 60% full, says Tim Gokhman, New Land’s managing director. “The feedback has been very positive,” says Gokhman. “It’s definitely the most inspiring project we have ever worked on. The building as a whole has exceeded expectations.”
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Gokhman is turning his sights afield now, with hopes of building new mass timber towers across the country. “We’re exploring the Denver market,” he says. “We’ve started those conversations. … And we’re going to start looking at other markets as well.”
The 25-story tower, which broke ground in August 2020, consists mostly of apartments, and also includes a gym, rooftop bar, outdoor screen, pool and incorporates exposed timber in much of its design. Using timber in mass construction helps to lower carbon emissions caused by building with conventional construction materials, like steel and concrete.
Gokhman is also considering partnering with other, less-experienced construction companies around the country to help them develop similar buildings. “Most people don’t think about built environments this way – we strive to create the feeling of joy when people walk inside, and Ascent does that in spades,” he says. “Part of that is mass timber, part of that is aesthetics, part of that is amenities.”
And there’s already another tower coming for Ascent’s crown – a new mass timber project in Sydney, Australia is currently under construction, aiming for 39 stories and a completion date in 2026.
“There’s absolutely no question that this is a very compelling construction methodology,” Gokhman says. “It’s in its early stages, but it’s a good way to build, and clearly people want it.”
