top of page

The Mystique of Hidden Windows: A Restoration Revelation

Writer: john_dye
john_dye
Jul 29, 2023
2 min read

Hey there, fans! Join me on an exciting journey as we explore some hidden treasures in this old building. Can you believe it? Tucked away for almost a century, there were nine windows waiting to be discovered! Now, that's what I call a surprise.


Picture this: as we peeled off two layers of siding, the original clapboard revealed four simple yet charming double hung windows in the main bar room. While they were no longer used or exposed to the inside, it was a delightful find indeed, shedding light on the room's original layout and design. They also explained why some areas in the bar were unreasonably hot in the summer and cold in the winter!


Heading towards the front of the building during the ongoing remodel, we had photos showing that there were stained glass windows that once adorned the storefront. Now, you'd think the stained glass was long gone, right? Well, hold on to your hats, because what did we find when we tore in tho the first boarded up window? A nearly intact stained glass window sitting beautifully in its frame, with 12 colored stained glass panes and one clear pane. Jackpot!


Oh, but it gets better, my friends. Can you believe there were five more stained glass windows hidden away, looking almost flawless under the boarded-up openings? Talk about a stroke of luck! Only two out of the 65 panes were broken, and the rest were in splendid condition, requiring just a bit of tender loving care.


Now, restoration projects often take you on a journey, and in this case, the building itself seemed to guide the way. With such amazing architectural pieces at hand, there is no other option but to lovingly clean them up and reintegrate them into the restored facade. Sure, they might not be from the mid-century era, but they're bursting with color and uniqueness that will blend wonderfully with the cocktail lounge vibe, especially when softly backlit with a warm amber glow.


Stepping back and looking at the building's facade with those exposed stained glass windows, everything suddenly makes sense. It all just clicks, and we can't help but feel grateful that someone from the past left us such a remarkable gift, a window into history itself.


So, my fellow adventurers, let's raise our glasses to the past and the present, as we savor this architectural gem and celebrate the beauty of hidden windows brought back to life!

 
 
 

21 Comments


binneyasa
a day ago

Discovering one can transform the understanding of a space, revealing how the Word hurdle building was originally designed and how its rooms once connected with the outdoors.

Edited
Like

derlean4
Oct 19

I love stories about hidden architectural treasures, and discovering those stained glass windows after nearly a century is amazing! I find it fascinating how restoring old buildings can reveal so much about their original design and history. When I want a quick break from reading interesting discoveries like this, I enjoy playing Veck IO for some fun and relaxation.

Like

DG Club
Oct 08

I have been seeing information about DG Club on different websites, but I am not sure how the platform works for new users. Can someone explain the registration process and what features are currently available?

Like

Sara
Oct 06

The process of checking a land map online is easier when the correct details are available. Bhulekh UP Naksha is useful for users searching for map-related information.

Like

annacholie
Oct 03

Finding six stained glass windows hidden behind the old facade must have been such a surprise. I love how the restoration keeps those original details instead of replacing them. That unexpected discovery reminds me a little of the surprises in Basket Bros.

Like

At Random Cocktail Lounge

2501 S Delaware Ave.

Milwaukee WI  53207

HOURS

Closed Super Bowl Sunday 2/8/26

Tue         5-1  

Wed        5-1

Thur        5-1

Fri           5-2

Sat          3-2

Sun         3-12  

Mon        CLOSED​

Last call is 30 mins before close. 

​

Carryout until 9pm

Visit our other historic Milwaukee lounges:

Bryants-logo-only.gif
VonTrier-GateBadge white text.png
The Estate_logo_est_white.png

© 2026 by Nitelite Hospitality

bottom of page