2025
Gold Award
General Contractor

Projects of Distinction

Project

Wisconsin Hotel and Conference Center

Winner

Holtz Builders, Inc.

Location

Lake Delton, WI

Owner

Hotel Wisconsin, LLC

Designer

River Valley Architects

About the Project

Holtz Builders’ transformation of the former Wintergreen Hotel into the Wisconsin Hotel and Conference Center is a story of preservation, innovation, and collaboration. Rather than demolish the historic structure, HBI partnered with the owner to reinvent the 60,625 sq. ft. landmark as a boutique hotel and conference destination that blends Wisconsin heritage with modern comfort. This renovation project required adaptive scheduling and problem-solving to meet its accelerated timeline. Initially planned as a design refresh, the scope evolved into a structural overhaul, demanding flexibility and close coordination with subcontractors, engineers, and design partners. Despite unforeseen challenges—from deteriorated trusses and foundation issues to modular repairs and long material lead times—Holtz Builders maintained progress through proactive planning, daily communication, and the use of tools such as drones, laser measurement, and Procore project management software. Quality was prioritized through mock-up rooms, rigorous engineering reviews, and value engineering strategies that balanced safety, budget, and constructability. The resulting spaces include guest suites, a versatile conference center, and lobby features, such as a floating steel-and-timber staircase and custom fireplace façade.

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