University of Washington NWREC Greenhouse

View looking northwest at the entry of the new Seasonal Housing and Administration Building

HKP Architects partnered with TRICO Companies and Washington State University (WSU) on a Design Build effort to deliver a new 3,400 square foot greenhouse at the Mount Vernon Northwestern Washington Research & Extension Center (NWREC). The facility expands WSU’s controlled environment research capacity, supporting studies in blueberries, spinach, wheat varieties, and other crops central to the Skagit Valley’s agricultural identity.

At the heart of the project is the adaptation of a decade old surplus greenhouse kit—purchased by the University but never constructed. HKP and the Design Build team worked closely with WSU to optimize programmatic needs while staying within the constraints of the existing kit of parts. This included introducing new interior partition walls and doors to subdivide the structure into three functional zones: two dedicated grow labs and a central potting and staging room. To support this layout, the team reconfigured the evaporative cooling system, exhaust fans, and heating equipment to operate efficiently across three independent spaces rather than one large volume—all while minimizing added cost and complexity.

Additional challenges included developing new structural calculations for the pre manufactured system to meet current code requirements and establishing a viable compliance path under the Washington State Energy Code (WSEC) for an older kit not originally designed for today’s standards.

HKP’s role includes design leadership, permitting coordination, and the integration of new systems and interior improvements that support WSU’s research mission. Funded by a Skagit County Development grant, the project is scheduled for completion in summer 2026—advancing NWREC’s capacity to support agricultural innovation in the region.