A few examples from my 13 year career.

1. Lisa
Blazek WRID, LEED AP
1245 Westbrooke Parkway
Waukesha, WI 53186
h 262.717.1308 c 262.309.5851
lblazek@wi.rr.com
Interior
Design PORTFOLIO

2. Ambassador
Hotel
Ambassador Hotel Historic Renovation, Milwaukee WI
The historic 133 room Ambassador Hotel had been stripped of its detail as various owners “remodeled” the once
stately building with the inappropriate use of acoustical tile, wood paneling and carpeting. The design challenge was
to uncover, restore and refurbish this circa 1928 building to its original Art Deco grandeur while integrating today’s
technology, building codes and hotel guest needs into a facility of destination proportions.
Lobby
The lobby renovations included restoration of the terrazzo and
stone floors, the existing mirrors flanking the columns, and the
glorious brass elevator doors. Decorative plaster was uncovered
and accented with paint and existing light fixtures were cleaned
and repaired. A new cherry check-in desk was designed with
integral lighting. New furniture was selected for its clean lines
and brushed nickel accents.
Before
ASID GOLD Award Winner
Historic Renovation

3. Ambassador
Hotel
Ambassador Hotel Historic Renovation, Milwaukee WI
Before Before
Envoy Restaurant Envoy Lounge
Multicolor patterned terrazzo and granite tile floor and A new bar with simple lines and glass shelving was designed. Accent lighting at the foot rail in
ornamental plaster ceiling detail was uncovered and conjunction with the highly polished floor provides “sparkle”. The peach tone walls in combination
highlighted through paint. New furnishings and refurbished with the cherry tones of the furnishings provide a warm and relaxing atmosphere. Refurbished crystal
chandeliers complete the renovation. chandeliers were accented with simple mono-point pendants above the bar.
Before
Before
Cafe Deco
Cafe Deco was newly created in a space that previously housed a lounge. The greatest challenge
ASID GOLD Award Winner in this space was to provide ADA access from the grade level entry to the higher lobby level making
the facility completely accessible. A grand, sweeping ramp provides this required access while also
Historic Renovation becoming a design element rather than a code compliant requirement. This ramp is flanked with bar
height counter for computer use and divides the space into a multi level coffee lounge.

4. Ambassador
Hotel (Phase 2)
Ambassador Hotel, Milwaukee WI – Future Addition Floors 2 and 3
This new addition to the property is known as the “Link” and is an 8 story connection between the original hotel and an adjacent
apartment building that will be converted to more guest suites.
Intensive schematic design developed a theme, mixing a contemporary look with streamlined Art Deco accents, including brushed nickel,
suspended crystals and pops of color. The goal of this luxurious design was to put the Ambassador on the map as a destination for
business meetings and weddings.
Master planning was involved to determine
that the 2nd floor serve as the “hub” for
the entire facility. It is at this point that all
facilities including the parking garage, original
hotel, future guest suites, and future spa all
connect. Therefore, a grand, 2 story space
was created. Features include custom
designed chandeliers, a glass staircase
backlit with color changing LED lighting, and
a commissioned mural that spans the entire
length of the lobby. Adjacent to this space is
a 100 person capacity banquet room that also
features complete audio visual technology. A
walk out balcony is accessible from all areas
of the 2nd floor. The third floor consists of
additional seating and a business center.

5. Ambassador
Hotel (Phase 2)
Ambassador Hotel, Milwaukee WI
Future Addition Pre function Floors 6 and 7
These two floors function together and are joined by the central
staircase. A glittering terrazzo floor serves as a dance floor while
organic ceiling elements support strands of crystals illuminated by
individual fiber optic lamps.
The upper floor provides cozy seating for guests to get away from the
activity and enjoy intimate conversations. Aluminum and glass railings
keep the look modern while providing visual connection between the
two floors.

6. Ambassador
Hotel (Phase 2)
Rooftop
The rooftop of the addition can be accessed from the ballroom
and provides a stunning venue for a cocktail hour or break
out space. Permanent outdoor lounge seating is accented by
contemporary banquet furniture. White was used throughout
the seating cushions and accents in order to allow the buildings
color changing LED lighting to play off of it.
Ambassador Hotel 8th floor Ballroom and Rooftop
8th Floor Ballroom
The 8th floor Ballroom features two full walls of windows overlooking the breathtaking Milwaukee skyline and
lake front views. This room was designed to be a unique non traditional space that would attract the most
discriminating brides. Drawings show the design development move from traditional to modern.

7. Bank of
Lake Mills
Bank of Lake Mills, Watertown WI
Under Construction
This small town bank wanted its new branch to pay
homage to the history of Watertown. Non structural
columns and beams create the look of an older building
and local landmarks are portrayed on digital wallcovering.
A cool color palette of navy and olive contrasts the
abundance of rich wood.
Before

8. Crowne Plaza
Hotel
Crowne Plaza Hotel Milwaukee West, Wauwatosa WI
This 198 room hotel was the first newly built Crowne Plaza Hotel and had a budget of $22 million. The client’s
desire for the first floor public space was to give the hotel a contemporary identity with an open concept plan
that encouraged flow between the lobby, bar, and restaurant as well as the pre-function area adjacent to the
banquet rooms. The individual identity of these areas was key to the experience, while maintaining overall design
consistency. A neutral color palette was used with accents of tangerine, apple green, and gold.
Before
ASID GOLD Award Winner, Hospitality
Intercontinental Hotel Group Newcomer Award Winner

9. Crowne Plaza
Hotel
Crowne Plaza Hotel Milwaukee West – Guest Suites
The guest rooms are furnished with custom designed wood case goods. The headboard incorporates a
stitched leather insert and attached night stands, simplifying cleaning duties. Continuing the theme from
the main floor, texture and movement are key design elements, reflected in the rich color carpet with cut
pile accents adding visual cues to the back of the custom designed lounge chair. Views to nature through
the expansive windows add to the calming atmosphere.
Before
ASID GOLD Award Winner, Hospitality
Intercontinental Hotel Group Newcomer Award Winner

10. Crowne Plaza
Hotel
Crowne Plaza Hotel Milwaukee West – Innovation
Restaurant and Meeting Spaces
The Crowne Plaza’s motto is “The Place to Meet”. Therefore, all meeting spaces
were designed using state of the art technology, integrated and dramatic lighting, and
sophisticated finishes. A ballroom, pre function space, full service restaurant, and
board room are all located adjacent to the lobby.
Top
Ballroom photograph and conceptual rendering.
Middle
Far left Board Room. Conceptual rendering and
photograph of Innovation restaurant.
Bottom
Pre function space photograph and conceptual
rendering.
Before
ASID GOLD Award Winner, Hospitality
Intercontinental Hotel Group Newcomer Award Winner

11. Rogers Memorial
Herrington
Rogers Memorial Hospital Herrington Recovery Center, Oconomowoc WI
The mission of the Herrington Recovery Center is to provide a healing environment for those struggling with addiction.
This LEED® certified project used local, natural materials and an earthy theme to provide a healthy, calming place
for recovery.
The layout of the center was designed to take full advantage of the Nashota lake views.
ASID SILVER Award Winner
Health Care/Medical

12. Rogers Memorial
Herrington
Rogers Memorial Hospital Herrington Recovery Center, Oconomowoc WI
New wood frame construction, 22,000 square foot, 24 bed recovery center located on the lake includes offices,
cafeteria with a full service kitchen, outdoor terrace and patios and lounge areas. This LEED® certified treatment
facility includes a modular roof system, water efficient landscaping, light pollution reduction,
recycled and renewable materials, hydronic heating and an efficient HVAC system.
Above
The group therapy room is warm and earthy
while remaining flexible in design.
Above
A quiet alcove provides warmth from the
fireplace and privacy for reflection.
Right
The dining room offers nature views and has
direct access to the rooftop garden.
ASID SILVER Award Winner
Health Care/Medical

13. Wells Fargo Home Mortgage
Wells Fargo Home Mortgage, Milwaukee WI
Interior view of lobby for Wells Fargo Home Mortgage. The ‘after’ photo Above
highlights a full height backdrop wall and the custom reception desk. The
warm palette of interior finishes and curvilinear elements enhances the Conceptual rendering of lobby.
dynamic of the space. The corporate red accents continue the WFHM Before
branding. Right
Reception desk detail.
Interior view of second-floor
elevator lobby looking towards
main lobby. The curvilinear
ceiling and flooring theme
ASID GOLD Award Winner continues, highlighted with a
glowing ceiling structure.
Corporate

14. Hotel
Indigo
Hotel Indigo Chicago-Vernon Hills, Vernon Hills IL
This renovation consisted of renovating a tired and dated 1980’s Amerisuites Hotel into a hip, boutique style destination.
Gearing for Hotel Indigo’s 35 year old demographic, a fun and funky atmosphere was created. The renovation included the Before
relocation of the reception desk, the addition of a restaurant, all corridors, meeting rooms, guest rooms, fitness center and
swimming pool. Phasing of the remodel was of particular importance to maintain income for the property.
Lobby
Bold color and a sweeping reception desk immediately inform guests this is not
just any hotel. A backlit water wall features the brand’s “in”spiring message.
ASID GOLD Award Winner
Hospitality
Intercontinental Hotel Group
Renovation of the Year Award Winner

15. Hotel
Indigo
Hotel Indigo Chicago – Facilities
ASID GOLD Award Winner
Hospitality Series
Meeting rooms, restaurant and elevator lobby show the use of color and graphic photo murals.
Intercontinental Hotel Group
Renovation of the Year Award

16. Hotel
Indigo
Hotel Indigo Chicago – Guest Suites and Amenities
The guest rooms underwent a complete transformation. The suite is divided using an acrylic panel that diffuses the light
while an opalescent fabric softens the wall behind the sofa. Graphic photo murals bring in the element of nature.
Before
ASID GOLD Award Winner
Hospitality
Intercontinental Hotel Group
Renovation of the Year Award Winner

17. Foundations
Bank
Foundations Bank, Pewaukee WI
Foundations Bank is a new concept in banking which offers complete, customized banking services to each customer
through their own private banker. The owners desired a facility that would set them apart from “other” banks by offering
a warm, inviting place that was residential in feel. They requested an Italian theme, which stemmed from their love of the
country but also lent itself to the warmth they desired. The space plan needed to distinguish the separate areas of the
bank: Retail Banking, Business Center, Executive Area, Investment Banking and Support Staff.

18. Foundations
Bank
Foundations Bank, Pewaukee WI
Executive Suite
The Executive Suite houses the
Board Room, Reception Area and
Private Offices.
Right
Foundations Bank of the future.
This conceptual rendering is for a
future branch in Ozaukee County.

19. TWP Architecture
Office
TWP Architecture, Elm Grove WI
Conversion of an abandoned 1922 Italianate-style church to offices for an architectural firm. All the existing decorative
painting, plaster, wood moldings, and stained glass windows had to remain in place or be reused in order to place
the building on the National Register of Historic Places. The firm wanted their new office to be colorful, inspiring, and
dynamic…and the space transformed “beyond” a church.
Timeline
The timeline was the major challenge of this project — the day of closing to the day of occupancy was six months. During
that time the project was designed and constructed. I was also part general contractor and did much of the work myself
including painting restoration, tile work, and the careful cleaning of the stained glass windows.
ASID SILVER Award Winner
Historic Renovation

20. TWP Architecture
Office
Left
TWP Architecture, Elm Grove WI Small conference room is
tucked under the choir loft
Restored and repaired all original architectural elements. To create a dynamic interior, all new finishes, furnishings, and behind a glass partition
fixtures were contemporary — providing a stark contrast between the old and new. system. The firm’s original
1970’s furniture plays off the
To unify the three separate floors, an open, central staircase was constructed between the main and lower levels. zebra striped carpet tile floor.
In addition, the main conference room was located on the lower level. The former choir loft on the third floor houses
a rendering area beneath the large rose window.
Below
View of the former choir loft
converted to the interior
deisgn studio. Carpet colors
pick up the colors in the
stained glass windows and
monorail lighting contrasts
with the old architectural
elements.
Above
A collaborative break out space
known as the “think tank” is located
where the altar once stood.
Left
Interior design library and work
ASID SILVER Award Winner stations occupy the former choir loft
and take advantage of the natural light
Historic Renovation from the rose window.

21. TWP Architecture
Office
TWP Architecture, Elm Grove WI
Right
The focal point of the staff kitchen is the table made from
a salvaged plaster column. Exposed brick stands in
contrast with the modern lighting. Kitchen cabinets were
stained a light turquoise to keep the room bright.
Below
A commissioned conference table made of curved
beams sits in the middle of a round conference room.
Formerly the boiler room of the old church, stained
concrete with recessed up lights create drama.
Above
The reception area features an industrial style reception desk, metallic painted walls and an
overhead garage door that, when open, unifies the reception area with the office support
staff. Original beams and columns remain in their raw, found state.
ASID SILVER Award Winner
Historic Renovation