PULLMAN, Wash. — ARC Architects of Seattle has been selected to design new facilities for Washington State University’s Mount Vernon Research and Extension Unit.
Virgil Hanson, Pullman, project officer, WSU department of capital planning and development, said his department is negotiating a contract with the architect, which will go to the university’s board of regents for approval.
“ARC Architects will seek local input on design of facilities along Highway 536 west of Mount Vernon,” Hanson said.
ARC Architects was founded in 1976. It has broad experience, including a strong background in designing and planning laboratory, research and medical projects ranging from renovation to new facilities. The firm emphasizes harmonizing each building with its unique environment and blending aesthetic and practical needs.
WSU began the process in April to update the aging and antiquated agriculture research facilities.
“The university views the project as a partnership among the many agencies, businesses, and community groups that have agriculture and gardening ties in the region,” Hanson said.
“Groups with shared interests in the agricultural programs assigned to the Mount Vernon unit will be invited to provide their ideas. These ideas will influence the future of our agricultural research and gardening programs for the Skagit Valley.”
WSU advertised for interested architectural and engineering design teams to submit qualifications. Responses were screened by the WSU Qualifications Review Committee and ARC Architects were notified Tuesday that the university will negotiate a contract with the firm.
Meetings to gather public input will be held throughout the design process which is scheduled to be completed by May 2005, Hanson said. Construction would immediately follow, pending the availability of funding.
For more information, contact Hanson at (509) 335-1658 or e-mail him at vhanson@wsu.edu.
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