ABOUT US

Commitment to quality, value and superior craftsmanship are the foundations Mikkelson Builders has built upon since 1908. The ideals that were the building blocks of our founder Fred A. Mikkelson over a century ago are the cornerstones of the fourth generation of the Mikkelson family business today. Our strong reputation for integrity, honesty and superb quality in the homes we build is proof that these ideals are not a thing of the past.

Clear communication, the finest subcontractors and suppliers, and our vast experience ensures that each home is built with great skill, quality materials, and unmatched efficiency.  Recognition as a top home builder is evidenced by the fact that you may often see an ad for a home where the listing agent will bring to attention that the home is a ‘Quality Built Mikkelson Home’.

In 1969, our commitment to quality and craftsmanship extended to include the design and construction of office buildings.  Commercial and retail space soon followed and today Mikkelson Builders owns and manages over 400,000 sq. ft. of office space.  We currently have 17 buildings in the Mequon, Pewaukee and Delafield regions.

Whether we are building your new home, or leasing space for your business, our goal is to provide you with a full service partner.  We are committed to listening attentively, working hard and adding true value through our collective expertise and passion.

For over 100 years, Mikkelson Builders has continued to combine the best of innovation with tradition for home, office and commercial.

OUR TEAM

OUR FOUNDER

Our Founder, Fred A. Mikkelson was a prominent architect in the Milwaukee area during the early-to-mid 20th century, known for his residential designs. He was the son of a Danish immigrant farmer, who began building Milwaukee homes in 1908.  Fred studied engineering and architecture for three years (Marquette and the University of Wisconsin) before joining his father’s firm as a Mason’s Helper in 1921.  Fred took over the business in 1935, and soon began building 250-300 homes per year throughout Milwaukee.

While his designs were influenced by a variety of architectural styles, including Colonial Revival, Tudor Revival, and Arts and Crafts, he is probably best known for the Classic Mikkelson Colonial, known affectionately as the “Mikkey”.  There are approximately 6,500 “Mikkeys” spread over the Milwaukee area from Whitefish Bay to Cudahy.

Mikkelson’s designs typically catered to the middle and upper classes and were characterized by a strong focus on craftsmanship, practicality, and a blend of traditional and modern aesthetics.

Key Features of His Homes

Craftsmanship: Mikkelson’s homes are often noted for their high-quality craftsmanship. This was a hallmark of his work, with great attention paid to the materials and construction techniques. Fred did not hesitate to send a load of lumber back to the supplier, if it didn’t meet his exacting quality standards, or, de-side and re-side a dozen homes because the material didn’t stand up.

Variety of Styles: As mentioned, Mikkelson worked in a variety of architectural styles, from the Tudor Revival to Colonial Revival. Some of his homes have distinctive English or Dutch influences, while others feature more traditional American designs.

Residential Focus: Mikkelson’s focus was primarily residential. He was involved in designing both single-family homes and larger estates, particularly in neighborhoods that were emerging in the early 20th century in the Milwaukee area.

Notable Work in Milwaukee

Tudor Revival Homes: Mikkelson was especially noted for his Tudor-style houses. These homes typically feature steeply pitched roofs, brick facades, and intricate detailing. Many of these homes were built in emerging suburban areas of Milwaukee in the 1920s and 1930s.

Colonial Revival Designs: Another of Mikkelson’s trademarks was Colonial Revival, which was especially popular in the 1920s and 1930s. These homes often feature symmetrical facades, gable roofs, and brick or wood exteriors.

Wauwatosa and Shorewood: These areas in Milwaukee were home to several of Mikkelson’s residential designs. Wauwatosa, in particular, saw a rise in high-end homes during this time, and Mikkelson was among the architects who helped define the architectural landscape of this neighborhood.

Early Suburb Development: Mikkelson’s homes were typically designed for emerging suburban areas, which were becoming increasingly popular in the 1920s and 1930s. As the city of Milwaukee began to expand, these suburban neighborhoods saw the introduction of many Mikkelson-designed homes.

Influence and Legacy

While Fred A. Mikkelson may not be as widely recognized as some other Milwaukee architects, his influence is still present in the architectural fabric of the city. Many of his homes remain standing today, reflecting the design sensibilities of early 20th-century America. As a fourth-generation company, we are dedicated to upholding his legacy by delivering functional design, exceptional craftsmanship, and affordable solutions to our clients.

MIKKELSON BUILDERS COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

We are truly fortunate to be an integral part of our local community. Recognizing the importance of giving back, we engage in various initiatives that contribute to the community in many ways. From sponsoring local events, to collaborating with local schools and charitable organizations, our contributions of time and talent extend well beyond bricks and mortar. Through our various projects, we hope to make a lasting impact on our community. Click below to view some of our recent activities.

CLIENT TESTAMONIALS

See what our clients and office tenants are saying about us below: