March 20, 2026

Gold Winner — Public

Photo by DPdrones [enlarge]

Mission-textured Norman face brick wraps the ground level of the Mount Vernon Library Commons.

Mount Vernon Library Commons, Mount Vernon

Mason contractor: Northbound Masonry

Architect: HKP Architects

General contractor: Lydig Construction

Masonry supplier: Mutual Materials

Mount Vernon Library Commons is the largest public project ever undertaken by the city of Mount Vernon and in Skagit County. Prominently located at the gateway to historic downtown and across the street from the Skagit County Courthouse, the building establishes a strong civic presence rooted in quality, beauty and durability.

The Commons houses a new public library, community center, commercial kitchen and three levels of structured parking. It is the first publicly bid Phius-certified passive building, and includes the largest public EV-charging station in the country. Active public spaces line the ground floor, where face brick masonry defines the pedestrian experience and meets Historic Design Requirements.

Mission textured Norman face brick wraps the ground level, offering human scale and tactile richness. Recessed entries create welcoming “eddies” along the sidewalk, while brick-clad stair and elevator towers provide a consistent wayfinding and contrast against the concrete parking structure. Terracotta screening discreetly conceals the garage, blending with the historic context while allowing daylight and ventilation.

Additional masonry elements reinforce both sustainability and durability. Pervious concrete pavers manage stormwater at the sidewalks, and floating concrete masonry pavers activate the east roof terrace. These regionally manufactured materials were selected for low embodied carbon, longevity, and recyclability. In fact, all masonry components, including terracotta cladding, account for just 3 percent of the project’s total Whole Building Life Cycle Assessment carbon footprint.

Through thoughtful material selection and innovative design, the Mount Vernon Library Commons delivers a climate-resilient, future-forward civic landmark that strengthens downtown designed to serve as an inclusive community hub for generations to come.

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