Martin Peter Schneider was born in 1890 in Lodi, he graduated in 1912 with an engineering degree, and soon after that, he attended graduate school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Later that same year, Schneider was back in Madison, starting his practice in his home. His impressive architectural work includes designs in most styles popular from the 1910s through the 30s. His designs include both residential and commercial buildings. Many of his buildings are still standing and are recognizable Madison landmarks today.