Historic Perkins Building Receives $7-Mil Renovation

TACOMA, WA-When built in 1907, the Perkins Building on the corner of 11th and “A” streets here was the tallest reinforced concrete building in the Northwest. Sidney Perkins of the S.A. Perkins’ newspaper empire in Washington had seen to it that the building was the most “thoroughly modern” of its time. Now, 93 years and several additions later, the 65,000-sf structure now owned by Gary Bodenstab is receiving a $7 million renovation to entice high-tech office tenants.

Tacoma-based Mountain Construction is in charge of the 8-story property’s overhaul. During demolition, Mountain discovered original brick walls and ornate floor tiles, which are being restored to preserve the historic beauty of the building. A source at Colliers International, leasing agent for the property, describes the building to GlobeSt.com as “one of the nicest in Tacoma.” Leases in the refurbished, atrium-centered building will run $19.50/sf fully serviced. Partial restoration has been complete, with some floors ready for “build to suit” leasing. Project completion is expected within the next eight weeks, according to Colliers.