Madison’s Landmarks Commission on Monday approved a proposal that looks to raze the Essen Haus German restaurant and nearby buildings downtown, according to the Wisconsin State Journal, replacing them with housing, a hotel, and parking. Monday marked the proposal’s third appearance before the commission. It is the fourth redevelopment proposal for the Essen Haus block since 2000.
Eau Claire-based JCap Real Estate is set to construct an eight-story, 178-unit housing structure on South Blair Street, as well as a six-story, 100-room hotel on East Wilson Street, replacing the properties at 506, 510, 514, 516, and 518 E. Wilson St. and 134, 140, 148, and 150 S. Blair St.
The Hotel Ruby Marie would remain a distinct structure, retaining its Up North Bar, and the facades of the Come Back In and J.B. Drives Store Building on East Wilson Street would be preserved as part of the new hotel. There would also be an alley or promenade between the buildings.
In response to concerns previously raised by the Landmarks Commission, JCAP adjusted the appearance of the residential building to include arched window openings, more masonry, a 10-foot step back from the street after the first two stories, and another 10-foot step back on the top story.
The proposal will head to the Plan Commission on June 10 and will also need City Council approval.
