Feeding Innovation: Bernardo Wills Helps Bring Grain Handling Inc.’s Corn Flaker Facility to Life
In Plymouth, Washington, a cutting-edge agricultural facility is now fully operational—serving as both a technical achievement and a strategic investment in the future of animal nutrition and sustainable agribusiness. Bernardo Wills is proud to have supported this milestone through architectural design services for the new commercial steam corn flaking plant for Grain Handling Inc., a division of AgriNorthwest.
This state-of-the-art facility, now the largest commercial corn flaker in the Columbia Basin, significantly increases production capacity and efficiency for the region’s feed supply chain. With the ability to produce up to 800 tons of flaked corn daily, it will serve dairies and feedlots across the Columbia Basin, Yakima Valley, and beyond.
Supporting a Growing Regional Industry Through Smart Design
Agriculture continues to be one of the economic pillars of Eastern Washington—and facilities like this one are critical infrastructure for that ecosystem. From feed efficiency to environmental performance, the new steam corn flaker improves nearly every step of the supply chain it serves.
The flaking process involves using steam to increase the moisture content of whole corn kernels before compressing them flat. This improves digestibility, enabling animals to better convert feed into energy. According to AgriNorthwest, this results in more productive livestock and fewer greenhouse gas emissions per animal.
For this highly specialized operation, Grain Handling Inc. needed a facility that could house advanced processing equipment while withstanding heavy industrial use, integrating smoothly with existing infrastructure, and supporting future operational growth. That’s where our team came in.
Architectural Design Built for Purpose
Our architects provided comprehensive basic design services for the new facility—bringing function, efficiency, and longevity to the forefront.
Working closely with AgriNorthwest, Grain Handling Inc., and Bouten Construction, we developed a design solution that supported the client’s vision and the technical requirements of steam flaking operations. From workflow considerations to durability, our approach prioritized practical outcomes—ensuring the building would serve its high-performance purpose safely and effectively.
Our experience in the industrial sector allowed us to move quickly and responsively through design and coordination while respecting the tight timeline for construction and commissioning.
Strengthening Agricultural Infrastructure in the Columbia Basin
Facilities like the Plymouth corn flaker are more than buildings—they’re economic drivers. In addition to supporting the production of more energy-efficient feed, the facility created new jobs on-site and represents a long-term investment in agricultural innovation for the region.
We’re proud to have played a role in helping AgriNorthwest and Grain Handling Inc. expand their capabilities, and we look forward to seeing the long-term impact of this work throughout the Columbia Basin.
Let’s Give Your Purpose a Place
Whether you're expanding operations, optimizing production, or building something brand new, we’re here to help. With expertise in industrial architecture and a commitment to helping our clients bring their vision to life, Bernardo Wills delivers purpose-built facilities that perform.
Let’s give your purpose a place—reach out today!
