Building the first new Catholic school campuses in Milwaukee in more than 60 years

Seton Catholic Schools

32,000 SF each

Services Provided: Civil, Landscape Architecture, Structural, Mechanical, Electrical, Plumbing, Fire Protection, Lighting Design, Telecommunications

As part of a transformative investment in Catholic education across Milwaukee, Seton Catholic Schools embarked on the development of two new K-8 campuses: Prince of Peace and St. Rafael the Archangel.

The initiative represents the first construction of new Catholic school buildings in Milwaukee in more than six decades, providing contemporary learning environments designed to support student growth, academic excellence, and long-term community impact.

Designed as nearly identical standalone facilities of approximately 38,000 SF each, the new schools were constructed while existing school operations remained active. This required careful planning and coordination to maintain safe access, minimize disruptions, and support phased construction activities. At the St. Rafael campus, the project also included site redevelopment efforts that prepared the property for a new generation of educational facilities.

Harwood provided a full suite of engineering services, including civil, landscape architecture, structural, mechanical, electrical, lighting, low voltage, fire protection, and plumbing design. By applying a consistent engineering approach across both campuses while adapting solutions to each site’s unique conditions, the team helped streamline project delivery and maximize efficiency throughout the design and construction process.

Today, the new Prince of Peace and St. Rafael the Archangel schools stand as a significant investment in Milwaukee’s future. The campuses provide modern, durable, and energy-efficient learning environments that support students, faculty, and families while reinforcing Seton Catholic Schools’ commitment to delivering exceptional educational opportunities for generations to come.