The Wisconsin Veterinary Referral Center (WVRC) project in Pewaukee, Wisconsin has been recognized as one of the most impressive and complex construction achievements completed by a Wisconsin contractor in 2025. Associated Builders & Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin will honor Keller, Inc. with a GOLD Projects of Distinction – Excellence in Construction Award for this project on Thursday, January 15, 2026, in Wisconsin Dells.
Project Overview
Spanning more than 25,000 square feet, the new WVRC Pewaukee facility represents the latest evolution of a trusted partnership between Basatada LLC and Keller, Inc. The state-of-the-art 24/7 emergency and specialty veterinary hospital replaces WVRC’s former Waukesha clinic and serves as a flagship location for advanced animal care across southeastern Wisconsin.
The project showcases Keller’s design-build expertise at its finest – combining architectural innovation, functional precision, and operational efficiency into one seamless facility. The design includes 25 exam rooms, four operating rooms, four procedure suites, and supporting spaces tailored to the fast-paced, high-acuity environment of a modern veterinary hospital.
At the heart of the building is a welcoming, one-and-a-half-story main lobby, featuring a dramatic waterfall roofline clad in aluminum composite panels, a covered emergency drop-off canopy, and sunshades above south-facing windows that create both comfort and energy efficiency. The exterior materials – ledgestone veneer, LP DiamondKote siding, extruded aluminum panels, and expansive tinted storefront glazing – blend modern design with long-term durability and low maintenance.
Inside, every surface was chosen for a balance of resilience, hygiene, and warmth. The interior design features luxury vinyl tile, quartz countertops, and high-performance wall protection designed to withstand 24/7 use while maintaining a calm, professional environment. Natural tones and textures inspired by Wisconsin’s landscape create a soothing atmosphere for patients and staff alike.
Collaboration was central to the project’s success. Keller’s architects, designers, and project managers worked hand-in-hand with the developer and tenant – Ethos Veterinary Health, a national network of specialty hospitals – to coordinate every system and space requirement. Through Keller’s organized communication, transparent design adjustments, and rigorous quality control, the project advanced smoothly and efficiently, ultimately delivering a world-class facility built for endurance and compassion.
Owner Partnership
In their letter of recommendation, Jeff Meinen and Dr. John Beltz of Basatada LLC shared:
“We originally had the pleasure of working with Keller on our 11,000 sq. ft. hospital in Somers, WI, and the experience was so positive that we hired them for two more projects – including our 25,704 sq. ft. custom emergency and specialty veterinary hospital in Pewaukee.”
They added,
“Although we knew the professionalism and quality to expect from Keller, it was rewarding to hear our tenant’s Director of Design and Construction – who oversees hundreds of hospitals nationwide – express how impressed they were with the quality of the buildings. Keller’s communication, professionalism, and craftsmanship have been exceptional across every project.”
Commitment to Excellence
The WVRC Pewaukee facility stands as a testament to Keller’s enduring partnership with its clients and to the company’s expertise in large-scale healthcare and veterinary design-build projects. Every detail – from the architectural design and interior finishes to the functional flow and energy-efficient systems – was thoughtfully executed to deliver a facility that supports lifesaving care with precision, comfort, and purpose.
About the Projects of Distinction Awards
The Projects of Distinction Awards recognize Wisconsin’s most remarkable construction achievements, judged by a panel of industry experts on quality, safety, craftsmanship, and owner satisfaction.
“Projects of Distinction demonstrate the excellence in construction services by ABC of Wisconsin members,” said Kelly Tourdot, President of ABC of Wisconsin. “These projects showcase the professionalism, craftsmanship, and commitment to safety that set merit contractors apart.”
Keller, Inc. is an award winning, single-source, design/build general contractor headquartered in Kaukauna, WI, with offices in Madison, Milwaukee and Wausau. As 100% employee-owned, they are leaders in the construction industry specializing in new construction, remodel, retrofit, and reroof projects. They have the staff and expertise to take projects from the early phases of design through the construction process to ensure that the project is completed on time and within budget.
