Bellingham High School

Dawson Construction completed a significant renovation and expansion of Bellingham High School, one of the city's most historically important educational buildings. The project involved extensive renovations to the existing school and the addition of a new 800-seat auditorium, performing arts center, and three-story student commons area.

A particularly noteworthy aspect of the project was the careful restoration and repair of the historic entryway and 1938 streamline modern art deco facade, a distinctive architectural feature that gives the school its iconic presence in the Bellingham streetscape. This required specialized repair techniques that matched the original materials and design details while bringing the structure up to current seismic and safety codes.

Bellingham High School emerged from the project with its historic identity intact and its capabilities transformed. The restored 1938 art deco facade still defines the school's presence in the community, now complemented by an 800-seat auditorium and performing arts center that serve as venues for both school and community events. The three-story student commons gave the school a modern heart where students actually want to spend time. For a community that cares deeply about its architectural heritage, Dawson delivered a renovation that respects the past while building for the future.