Got a few minutes to help us out?
We're building a new Capitol Campus website and could use your feedback!
We're building a new Capitol Campus website and could use your feedback!
As part of the Legislative Campus Modernization (LCM) project DES is replacing the existing Irv Newhouse Building that houses members of the Senate and their staff.
The Newhouse Building was constructed as a temporary structure in 1934 and is beyond its useful life. It has significant health and safety hazards, obsolete building systems, and the interior is overcrowded during Legislative Session.
The Newhouse Replacement Project is underway and scheduled to be completed in late 2024.
Before visiting campus, please note:
Stay up-to-date on the latest impacts by reading the LCM Weekly Update and viewing progress photos on our LCM Flickr Collection.
The project is scheduled to be complete in late 2024.
All construction schedules are subject to change.
The design underwent months of public input, including an environmental review and feedback from a Peer Review Landscape Panel.
If you want to get involved in LCM, attend our next LCM Stakeholder Meeting or subscribe to the LCM Weekly Update for upcoming opportunities.
Watch the Newhouse Replacement Project Overview video and view the design.
The Newhouse replacement building will complement the historic campus design while using modern techniques to meet both the current and future needs of the Senate, and help the campus meet its clean energy goals.
The Newhouse replacement building will feature design elements and artwork that depict the timeless aesthetic and values of Washington State, and an expanded footprint to reduce crowding.
The building is also on track to receive at least a Silver Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) rating.
Key sustainability features include:
The landscape design will enhance the plan of the original landscape architects, the Olmsted brothers, and will create a beautiful transition from the west Capitol Campus landscape to the historic South Capitol Neighborhood.
Watch the Maintaining the Olmsted Legacy video to learn more about Olmsted design on the Capitol Campus.
To make room for the new building, DES had to demolish the existing Irv Newhouse Building and nearby Capitol Press Corps Houses.
DES worked with the Washington State Department of Archaeological and Historic Preservation (DAHP) to come up with a plan to offset those losses:
Watch the Historic Mitigation video to learn more about DES’ plan, or Historic Washington: Capitol Press Houses on TVW to learn more about the historic Press Houses.