Historic building receives state award following restoration by Pullman couple

David Harder and Jenny Fluter-Harder restored Pullman's Interstate Telephone Exchange, earning the prestigious Valerie Sivinski Award for Outstanding Rehabilitation from the Washington State Department of Archaeology and Historic Preservation. After a 1. 5-year renovation, the couple transformed the vacant building, which had stood empty since 1975, into a new home for their cultural resource management firm, Plateau CRM. They had envisioned the restoration for over a decade, motivated by their love for historic buildings. The 1938 structure required significant repairs, including updates to its mechanical and electrical systems, while local contractors assisted in the renovation.

Harder emphasized the importance of maintaining the building's original character, pointing out features like old cables and a vintage rolling ladder they sourced from an estate sale. The couple aims to contribute to the historical significance of the area through their work. Their efforts not only revive a historic site but also provide a functional workspace for their business. The renovation reflects a commitment to preserving local heritage while promoting sustainable use of historical structures.