American financial services company Northwestern Mutual has started construction on its $500m North Office Building Modernization project in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, US.

Situated at 818 East Mason Street in Downtown Milwaukee, the North Office Building will be remodelled to improve the company’s workplace and employee experience.

In February this year, Northwestern Mutual announced that almost 2,000 of its employees would be relocated from the previous Franklin, Tennessee-based site to the new downtown location in a phased manner.

Northwestern Mutual chair, president, and CEO John Schlifske said: “Today marks a major milestone in our investment to create a connected, world-class campus for Northwestern Mutual, bringing our workforce and community together as we build lasting financial security for clients, policyowners and future generations.”

The company has appointed Gilbane Building, in collaboration with CG Schmidtwill, as the general contractor and construction manager for the project, respectively.

The chosen architectural team includes Pickard Chilton and Kendall/Heaton, with EUA to provide interior design services.

Gilbane Building Milwaukee vice-president Alicia Dupies said: “Collectively, we’re committed to strengthening the construction industry - both small businesses and craftworkers - while we deliver on Northwestern Mutual’s vision for a world-class campus and thriving downtown community.”

Northwestern Mutual has committed to using small businesses for at least 25% of the construction process and 18% of the professional services costs on the project’s construction.

Additionally, in accordance with the city’s Residents Preference Program, the company will employ jobless and underemployed local citizens.

The North Office Building is expected to be open for occupancy in 2027.