Postmark Center
for the Arts

  • Built in 1937 under the WPA program, Auburn’s historic Post Office stood for decades as a civic landmark before falling vacant. When the City of Auburn sought to give the building new life, the vision was clear: transform a relic of public service into a center for community arts. Over more than ten years — through funding delays, reinstatement, and patient restoration — the building became the Postmark Center for the Arts.

    Much of the work began with subtraction: removing drop ceilings, partitions, and damaged materials to reveal the original terrazzo floors, wood-plank ceilings, and salvaging the marble wainscot. The terrazzo, in particular, exceeded expectations once uncovered — a vibrant surface that immediately reconnected the building to its 1930s origins. The restored wood floors and ceiling introduced warmth and texture, offering a counterpoint to the white walls and bright lighting typically associated with gallery environments.

    Not every historic element could be preserved. The existing brick walls, which we had hoped to leave exposed, unfortunately were covered with a black bituminous waterproofing material. As a result, the walls were finished in white sheetrock, allowing art to take precedence. Other challenges included repointing the masonry, repairing or replacing deteriorated windows, and renovating the rooftop lantern, which had suffered significant water damage.

    The building’s original details continue to enrich its new role. The postmaster’s vault now houses a gallery, while a chain-operated mechanism for the clerestory windows remains intact, linking contemporary visitors with the building’s mechanical past. Flexible interior walls allow the main gallery to be reconfigured for changing exhibitions, and support spaces such as the café, offices, and shop can close off for after-hours use, ensuring versatility for public events.

    What was once a utilitarian post office is now a civic gathering place; a cultural hub that balances preservation and adaptation. By embracing both its historic materials and contemporary functions, the Postmark Center for the Arts turns an everyday building into a memorable setting for creativity and community.

  • Architect & Interior Design: Johnston Architects, LLC
    Structural Engineer: Harriott Valentine Engineers, Inc.
    MEP Engineer:     Sider + Byers
    Waterproofing Consultant:     RDH Building Science, Inc.
    Photographer:     Will Austin

  • 2024 AIA Washington Council Civic Design Award, Merit
    2023 John D. Spellman Award for Achievement in Historic Preservation
    2023 Seattle DJC
    2022 Green Building + Design
    2021 Seattle DJC

  • The gallery entry opens beneath clerestory windows, washed with natural light from above.

  • The café brings daily activity and versatility of use into the historic structure.

  • The old postal vault anchors the new interiors, framed by layers of concrete, steel, and glass.

  • The original postal vault is repurposed as an intimate gallery space, preserving historic character.

  • Moveable walls allow for rotating exhibitions and evolving spatial configurations.

  • Glass partitions frame flexible breakout spaces, balancing transparency with quiet focus.

  • Exposed wood ceilings and polished floors provide a warm counterpoint to white gallery walls

  • Office wall provides hanging space while mirroring vault volume.

  • Daylit display areas provide opportunity to purchase local artwork.