Mid Century Spokane: Preserving the Mid-Century Homes, Neighborhoods, and Communities in Spokane, Washington

Distinguished Preservation Efforts in Spokane's Mid-Century Modern Communities

Mid Century Spokane is an active organization dedicated to celebrating and preserving the mid-century architectural and cultural heritage of Spokane, Washington, and the surrounding areas. With a deep appreciation for the region's Modernist legacy, the group works to raise awareness, foster appreciation, and advocate for protecting significant mid-century structures that define Spokane’s unique architectural landscape.

Spokane has long been home to a remarkable collection of mid-century buildings, many of which were designed by nationally recognized architects. Three of Spokane’s leading Modernists studied under Walter Gropius at Harvard—one of whom was even accepted at Frank Lloyd Wright’s Taliesin. The city boasts Washington state’s only Richard Neutra-designed building and is home to the Washington Water Power Central Service Facility, recognized by the American Institute of Architects as one of the five best buildings constructed in the U.S. in 1959. These visionary architects played a significant role in shaping Spokane’s built environment, leaving a lasting impact that continues to define the city’s character today.

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Increasing Public Awareness

Despite their cultural and historical significance, many of Spokane’s Modernist structures remain at risk due to demolition, redevelopment pressures, or a general lack of public awareness. According to the National Trust for Historic Preservation, buildings from the Modern Movement are among the most underappreciated and vulnerable aspects of America’s architectural heritage. This makes Mid Century Spokane’s mission all the more critical—ensuring these structures are recognized, valued, and protected for future generations.

The effort to document and preserve Spokane’s mid-century architecture gained momentum in 2016 when the Spokane City/County Historic Preservation Office and Spokane Historic Landmarks Commission secured a grant from the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation. This initiative, in collaboration with Spokane-based design group helveticka and architectural historian Diana Painter, PhD, of Painter Preservation, sought to identify and document significant mid-century buildings throughout the city. Their extensive research provided valuable insights into why Spokane became a hub for groundbreaking Modernist design and how these structures shaped post-war Spokane. The project ultimately identified 53 representative properties that capture key trends in Spokane’s mid-century architectural history, demonstrating the city's rich contributions to the Modernist movement.

Fostering Appreciation for Mid-Century Modernism

Mid Century Spokane continues this vital work by engaging the community through educational events, tours, and preservation advocacy. From highlighting iconic mid-century homes and commercial buildings to fostering a deeper appreciation for Spokane’s Modernist past, the organization is committed to ensuring that these architectural gems remain a celebrated part of the city’s future. Whether you're an architecture enthusiast, a historian, or simply someone who appreciates great design, Mid Century Spokane invites you to explore and support the preservation of this extraordinary era in Spokane’s architectural history.

Explore a selection of celebrated mid-century residences, made possible by the work of Mid Century Spokane:

The Joel E. Ferris II House (1955)

A defining piece of Spokane’s mid-century modern movement, the Joel E. Ferris II House was designed in 1955 by acclaimed architect Bruce Walker. This low-profile, glass-filled residence seamlessly integrates with its natural surroundings, creating a stunning interplay of light, space, and landscape. Located on the historic Graves Estate, the home was later enhanced by renowned landscape architect Lawrence Halprin, further emphasizing its modernist connection to nature. The Ferris House is a prime example of mid-century modern design, representing Spokane’s evolution from early 20th-century grandeur to sleek, contemporary aesthetics.

Learn More

If you share our passion for all things mid-century and live in Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, or the surrounding area, connect with Mid Century Spokane on Facebook. Here, you can stay engaged with local preservation efforts, discover standout commercial, residential, and institutional mid-century properties, and join a community celebrating Spokane’s Modernist heritage.

The Spokane City/County Historic Preservation Office protects and interprets Spokane's historic and architecturally significant properties. Mid Century Spokane Phone: (509) 625-6543 Email: preservation@spokanecity.org Website: historicspokane.org