Bellingham Public Schools Administrative Offices

Creating a Welcoming Hub with Mass Timber

The Bellingham Public Schools (BPS) Administrative Offices building was designed to create a mobile, open-office work environment. A key objective was to promote sustainability, health, and well-being, while also creating a welcoming space that demonstrates the district’s stewardship of community assets. The project was completed in 2022, standing two stories tall and encompassing 4,923 square meters.

A Design That Gives Back to the Community

To align with the District’s robust Climate Action Plan, cross-laminated timber (CLT) was selected as the primary building material. The choice of wood was driven by the numerous physiological and psychological benefits it offers, combined with its low carbon footprint. The building is a mass timber and light-frame structure with a V-B construction type.

Beyond the Desk: A Community Asset

The three-story, 53,000 square foot building incorporates CLT to create an open and welcoming environment. In addition to open workspaces, the building includes various professional learning and conference rooms, an early learning center, a wellness room, a bike storage area, and a central common space with a café. This educational facility serves 11,000 students, their families, and all District employees.

Project Highlights

• Open-Office Concept: Designed to support a mobile, open-office work setting and promote health and well-being.
• Sustainability-Driven: The choice of mass timber was made to honor the District’s Climate Action Plan.
• Community-Focused: The building serves as a welcoming community space, including a central café and an early learning center.
• Building System: Constructed using a combination of mass timber and light-frame materials, with CLT as the primary building material.