The completion of the McDonald/Cook Building at Ninth and I streets in Arcata, is the culmination of a years long process that started with the July 4, 2001 fire that destroyed the old Arcata Paint Building that previously occupied the site.
Pacific Builders was involved in the reconstruction project, literally before the smoke cleared, first securing the then dangerous site from the public to protect the owners from liability, then preparing and executing a demanding, detailed cleanup plan of the site. The cleanup required coordinating the requirements of several public agencies, as the site was contaminated with the waste of a large quantity of paint, paint related products, and other chemicals.
Before the cleanup was even completed, Pacific Builders began working with the owners and architect Philippe LaPotre to design a new building for the site.
The end result is a graceful building that mixes exterior finishes, including stucco, fiber cement siding, and ceramic tile. The building has approximately 3,000 square feet of commercial space on the first floor and two 1,400 square foot apartments on the second floor. The mix of commercial space with residential space above, is consistent with the City of Arcata's desire to create more residential space in the downtown area. The apartments feature private balconies with bay views, large open living spaces and upscale cabinetry.
