POSTED: Monday, Jan. 25, 2010

Historical renovation taking place on N. State Street

Each week, The Bellingham Herald takes a closer look at a business or an ongoing construction project in Whatcom County. This week: The renovation of a building at 1419 N. State St.

What is happening? A 100-year-old, two-story brick building with a total of 12,000 square feet has been completely gutted and is being renovated for its new owner, KSLJ LLC.

The space was previously occupied by Bellingham Harley-Davidson -- the dealership is still nearby at 1421 N. State St. -- but has condensed from two buildings into one, said Brandon Passe, project manager and owner of Oracle Contracting Services.

Who is doing the work? Oracle Contracting Services.

How much does is cost? $750,000.

Scheduled completion date? Late March 2010.

What is noteworthy about the project? Once renovations are completed, the new space will feature a 15-foot wide and 40-foot long interior atrium at its center with modern railings and a curved, sweeping staircase, said Patti Rowlson of PR Consulting Services. The atrium will extend from the basement all the way to the roof where 12 skylights will be installed.

The refurbished building will include a conference room and gym as well as office spaces on the street level. The building will maintain its original brick interior and exterior façade as well as wood ceiling beams that are being preserved and incorporated into the design.

The contractors are reusing about 90 percent of the buildings' original material, Passe said.

SOURCES: Brandon Passe, Oracle Contracting Services & Patti Rowlson, Pr Consulting Services