Creating Space for Curiosity: Spark Museum Rotating Gallery Ribbon Cutting

Community-Minded Commercial Construction in Bellingham, WA

When our team at Highline Construction started planning to take on more commercial construction projects in Whatcom and Skagit Counties, we had one big fear to contend with: how would we establish ourselves as the same beloved general contractor for commercial construction as for residential construction without losing heart? We have a reputation for quality construction that also delivers high on experience – building not just homes, but lasting relationships. Would we be able to do that in the commercial realm? Would our clients still feel a sense of connection with us? Would we feel a connection with them and with the projects?

Working with Spark Museum of Electrical Invention recently to transform their deserted radio-station-turned-storage-room into a classy exhibit space with both historic and industrial charm gave us the perfect opportunity to alleviate our fears; there’s no way Highline will ever lose heart.

Preserving a Legacy in Downtown Bellingham, WA

Our fabricated concerns allowed us to naively overlook the fact that, like us, other successful local businesses and organizations have just as much heart as we do. It’s because of the passion of the amazing founders, employees, donors, volunteers, and members of Spark Museum that this institution has the legacy in downtown Bellingham it has today. The passion of its people coupled with a wonderfully unique collection of electrical inventions that have shaped history leaves only one path – a path to continue to expand exhibits and offer an incomparable learning opportunity for our community for years to come. Getting to be part of that offers us the meaningful format in which we want to engage with our community as a commercial contractor.

Remodeling with Purpose

The Spark Museum of Electrical Invention selected us to remodel their storage space into a new rotating gallery. The inaugural exhibit, Curious by Design: The Mindport Legacy, has set the bar high. Long-time Bellinghamsters knew and loved Mindport for the near 30 years it operated in downtown Bellingham. When Mindport closed its doors in November of 2024, they generously relocated a considerable portion of their collection of marvelous objects to Spark Museum. Many of those items can be seen currently in the exhibit that occupies the room we remodeled.

Construction that Celebrates Community

On May 9, 2025, we were honored to join Spark employees and contributors and former Mindport staff members for a ribbon cutting ceremony to preview the new rotating gallery and its inaugural exhibit prior to the space opening to the general public the following day.

In his speech that evening, Spark Museum Director of Operations Charlie Bryan shared his experience working with our team: “We were really fortunate to work with Highline Construction on this project. . . If you have any construction needs, residential or commercial, I highly recommend Highline Construction – truly standup individuals. I have worked with a whole lot of contractors . . . I can say, without a doubt, Highline – absolutely the best of the bunch. Bar none. Bar none.”

Charlie’s words meant a lot to us. We know not every commercial project will be as public-facing as a museum, but we know each project will make a difference in building a strong community with a vibrant local economy. We look forward to building relationships with other incredible people like Charlie and his team along the way.

How You Can Help

We’re always happy to discuss construction projects you have in mind. In regard to this particular project, we invite you to support the Spark Museum by visiting, becoming a member, and/or making a donation to their capital campaign, which will allow for future expansions - namely the renovation of an entire second floor to turn it into an interactive Wonderlab to inspire curiosity and innovation for community members of all ages. Donate to their Wonderlab Capital Campaign today.

“Highline exceeded our expectations.

“Communication was constant, honest and clear. Trevor and his crew were all friendly and professional. They listened to our requests and delivered.

“We are thrilled with the quality of work! The project was on time and on budget. We will definitely be recommending Highline to our friends and family.”

– Matt Whitten, Bellingham, WA

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