Modern Talk: Northwest Mid-Century Architects Oral History Project

Modern Talk is Docomomo US/WEWA’s oral history project that documents the work and lives of design professionals who created a Northwest Regional Modern aesthetic in the mid-twentieth century. The architects and designers who created in the Modern vein in Western Washington in the post-WWII years left a rich legacy of design in our built environment. This project honors that legacy.

Important partners in this project were Jack Straw Productions and architectural photographers John Stamets and Abby Inpanbutr. This project was made possible through generous donations from individuals and corporations and through grants from the 4Culture Heritage Special Projects Program and the National Trust Preservation Fund.

Interviews occurred in 2008 and 2009. Photography took place between 2008 and 2013. We invite you to listen to the stories and view photographs of some of the exemplary work. You may also download transcripts of entire interviews.