On the banks of the Milwaukee River, two separate yet connected communities were in search of a shared sense of place. This is an excellent example of placemaking where only a sign existed before.

The city of Mequon and the village of Thiensville share a commercial heart, a town center that is thriving as urban development reaches its key crossroads. ZEBRADOG, in partnership with Groth Design Group, was enlisted to provide a vision of an iconic structure that instills an unmistakable sense of arrival and enhances this public space with stories of local history, public art displays, and improved riverfront access.

To start, ZEBRADOG created a co-branded “Mequon + Thiensville” identity mark which is a prominent aspect of the exhibit. The company also conducted site analysis and 3D modeling to create a civic gateway. This unique open structure celebrates the vitality of this evolving neighborhood and welcomes visitors with a sweeping gesture that emerges from a forested landscape.

The Gateway’s open slatted façade bends into a grand threshold leading to a shaded lawn and a promenade overlooking the scenic Milwaukee River. As visitors are drawn from their cars to explore this gateway they begin their journey into a neighborhood blossoming with character, history, and distinction. It signals the arrival to a special place like no other.