Wangard Partners Advances Creative District Vision at Eagleknit with New Tenant, Islands of Brilliance

04 August 2025

MILWAUKEE, WI—As Walker's Point evolves into a district known for creative expression, inclusive innovation, and adaptive reuse, Wangard Partners continues to shape that vision through its redevelopment of the Eagleknit building. The latest chapter in this transformation is welcoming Islands of Brilliance (IOB) to the tenant community.

Occupying a newly built-out studio within the historic 1928 knitting mill, Islands of Brilliance joins a growing network of organizations that use creativity and technology to create opportunity. The nonprofit, nationally recognized for its mentorship-based programs for neurodivergent learners, brings an energizing presence to the building and the neighborhood.

Our new studio at Eagleknit is more than a physical space; it's an ecosystem of creativity, connection, and possibility. Every detail, from flexible furniture to sensory-friendly lighting to cutting-edge creative tech, was intentionally designed to support neurodivergent learners. The result is an environment where students not only feel safe and welcome but also empowered to explore, express, and imagine bold futures.

Mark Fairbanks, Islands of Brilliance, Cofounder/Executive Director

The move also marks a long-term investment in the community. As Simmi Urbanek, Board Member of Islands of Brilliance, shared:

Having a space in the Eagleknit provides more opportunities for all stakeholders, students, mentors, families, donors, supporters, and board members. We have a home that is beautiful, efficient, and welcoming."

Simmi Urbanek, Islands of Brilliance, Board Member

Eagleknit's design is intentional. As a restored industrial property in the heart of Walker's Point, it functions as more than a commercial building—it's a platform for cross-sector collaboration and community engagement. The building brings together a diverse mix of tenants, including i.c.stars | Milwaukee*, a workforce development nonprofit focused on technology training; Dan Beyer Architects, a design-forward architecture firm; Tri-Marq Communications, a video and event production company; Reyn Engineering, an industrial engineering firm; and Walker Media Agency, a creative full-service marketing and advertising agency. This tenant mix spans industries and disciplines, fostering natural intersections between technology, design, media, and education. They form a dynamic ecosystem where organizations connect, ideas evolve, and shared values drive collective progress.

At Wangard Partners, we're committed to developing spaces that spark innovation and build community. Supporting Islands of Brilliance at Eagleknit is a natural extension of that mission. Their work is not only creative, it's transformational, and we're proud to be part of the environment that helps it thrive.

Burton Metz, President, Investment and Acquisitions, Wangard Partners

The space at Eagleknit includes flexible event and meeting space that serves as a neighborhood resource. It hosts everything from public workshops and networking events to technology showcases and private donor meetings. With rooftop access and city views, enhanced by public attractions like Indeed Brewing's rooftop beer garden, the facility invites community members and collaborators to gather in the space.

This announcement reflects a larger story of what’s possible when space, purpose, and creativity align. With momentum growing, Wangard Partners invites mission-aligned organizations to explore future opportunities at Eagleknit.

About Wangard Partners

Wangard Partners, Inc. is a Milwaukee-based real estate development and investment firm committed to creating high-quality, sustainable communities across Wisconsin and beyond. With a passion for innovative design and green building, Wangard Partners continues to shape the Midwest's residential landscape. Learn more at wangard.com

About Eagleknit

The Eagleknit building is a mixed-use innovation hub located in a revitalized historic mill in Milwaukee's Walker's Point neighborhood. Learn more at eagleknitmke.com.

To learn more about Islands of Brilliance, visit www.islandsofbrilliance.org.