05

Bellingham, Washington


Whatcom Middle School

Education Project

The greater Bellingham community suffered a tremendous loss as a result of a catastrophic fire that destroyed the historic Whatcom Middle School building. Dawson’s first task was emergency structural stabilization to avoid collapse or injury to work crews. Selective sections of the school were demolished in order to construct new finishes and connect infrastructure to the new building. The entire building interior was carefully rebuilt while maintaining the integrity of the historic facade.

A collaborative community effort in concert with an innovative design and construction approach resulted in the project being delivered a year ahead of schedule. A compelling video which tells the story of Whatcom Middle School’s incredible transformation can be viewed here.

client: Bellingham School District #501

architect: Dykeman Architects

Whatcom Middle School Before Project
Whatcom Middle School After Project