MAY 2026
Lewis County Member Spotlight
Toby’s Electric, LLC
Centralia, Washington-based electrical contractor specializing in residential, commercial, and industrial services. They are a full essential electrical service company. Give them a call today at (360) 388-8646 .
Top 10 Interior Design “Do’s” and “Don’ts”
Are you satisfied with your living space, but you think it could be better? You’re not alone. A well-designed space is key to turning your house into your home. You don’t need a dramatic overhaul to your décor to improve its comfort and appeal. And the best spaces should always reflect your own personal style and touch. The following design tips can help turn your space from drab to dreamy.
Interior Design Do’s:
Plan and prioritize: Start by creating a clear plan for your space, considering functionality, aesthetics, and budget. Identify the most important elements you want to focus on and allocate resources accordingly.
Create a cohesive color scheme: Choose a harmonious color palette that is complementary and sets the mood you want for the space. Stick to a few key colors to avoid a cluttered look.
Incorporate natural elements: Bringing nature indoors can add warmth and tranquility. Consider using natural materials like wood, stone, or plants to create a connection with the outdoors.
Optimize lighting: Use a combination of natural and artificial lighting to enhance the ambiance and functionality of the space. Incorporate task lighting, ambient lighting, and accent lighting for various purposes.
Invest in quality furniture: Good-quality furniture not only looks better but also lasts longer. Focus on comfort and durability when choosing pieces for your home.
Interior Design Don’ts:
Overcrowd the space: Avoid cluttering your rooms with too many unnecessary items. Leave enough breathing space to allow the design elements to shine.
Follow trends blindly: While it’s essential to stay updated with design trends, don’t feel obligated to incorporate them all. Choose elements that resonate with your style and preferences.
Neglect functionality: No matter how beautiful a design is, it should also be practical and functional. Ensure that the layout and furniture arrangement facilitate easy movement and usage.
Hang artwork incorrectly: Artwork should be hung at eye level and should complement the furniture and the overall design theme.
Rely solely on overhead lighting: Overhead lighting can create harsh shadows and a one-dimensional feel. Mix various lighting sources to create a warm and inviting atmosphere.
When it comes to interior design, what matters most is that you create spaces that reflect your personality and make you feel comfortable and happy. These do’s and don’ts can serve as general guidelines, but don’t be afraid to bend the rules if it leads to a space that truly resonates with you.
To find a qualified and trusted interior designer or contractor in Lewis County, please visit our online Hire-A-Pro searchable directory at omb.org.
10-week Residential Construction Academy at SPSCC
South Puget Sound Community College (SPSCC), in partnership with the Olympia Master Builders (OMB), is now offering a 10-week Residential Construction Academy to train and certify the next generation of skilled construction professionals.
Next Cohort Start Date: Monday, July 6
Orientation Dates: Thursday, June 25, at 3pm and Wednesday, July 1, at 3pm
How to Register: Students must first attend an orientation session.
Registration and program details are available through SPSCC https://spscc.edu/corporate-continuing-education/residential-construction
OMB Lewis County Industry Advocacy Update
May 19, 2026
Across Lewis County, Olympia Master Builders continues monitoring local government discussions tied to housing supply, infrastructure planning, permitting, and long-term growth management.
The most significant ongoing issue remains the broader Comprehensive Plan/Critical Areas Ordinance update work occurring throughout the county and local cities. These discussions will shape future zoning capacity, growth assumptions, transportation planning, and housing availability for years to come.
At the same time, continued economic and industrial growth throughout the region is increasing the importance of maintaining a healthy housing supply pipeline. As employers continue expanding in the area, housing affordability and workforce housing availability remain growing concerns for local communities.
OMB remains actively engaged in Lewis County to advocate for practical housing policies that support affordability, reduce unnecessary regulatory barriers, and maintain predictable permitting and development processes for the local building industry.
TOP 3 THINGS LEWIS COUNTY BUILDERS SHOULD KNOW
- Lewis County Comprehensive Plan Work Continues
Lewis County and local jurisdictions continue refining long-range growth policies that will shape future housing capacity, infrastructure planning, and development opportunities throughout the region. Decisions made during this process will directly affect land availability, permitting, and future housing supply. - Economic Growth Continues to Drive Housing Demand
Industrial and employment growth tied to the Port of Centralia, warehousing, logistics, and regional manufacturing activity continues increasing pressure on the local housing market. Communities across Lewis County are increasingly focused on how to accommodate future workforce housing demand while maintaining infrastructure capacity. - Infrastructure and Development Cost Pressures Remain a Concern
As growth continues, jurisdictions are evaluating transportation, utility, and capital facilities needs tied to future development. OMB will continue monitoring discussions that could influence future impact fees, development requirements, and project costs.
UPCOMING WATCHLIST ITEMS
- Continued Comprehensive Plan and growth planning discussions throughout Lewis County
- Infrastructure and capital facilities planning tied to future growth projections
- Ongoing economic development activity influencing workforce housing demand
- Implementation of recent state housing legislation and planning requirements
For more information, please contact Olympia Master Builders Government Affairs Director, Jessie Simmons, at ga@omb.org or (360)754-0912.
OMB Education Foundation Annual Live & Silent Auction
Come join us on Friday, June 12th, for a “Safari Nights” Silent and Live Auction! After the silent auction, our guests are treated to a plated dinner, hosted beverages, incredible desserts, and a chance to bid on once-in-a-lifetime experiences in the live auction. The live auction will also include a Fund-A-Need Paddle Raise, in which all proceeds will go to the Foundation’s Scholarship program. Visit omb.org to get tickets.
Time’s Ticking! Get your OMB Education Foundation scholarship application in before May 27, 2026!
The Olympia Master Builders (OMB) Education Foundation is accepting applications for scholarship grants ranging up to $2500 to college or vocational/technical school-bound students, who currently reside within Thurston, Lewis, Mason, Pacific or Grays Harbor Counties.
Visit omb.org to download the scholarship packet.
Mail all required information to: OMB Education Foundation, 1211 State Avenue NE, Olympia, WA 98506.
Join us for the OMB Lewis County Chapter Meeting
Thinking about joining OMB—or want to get more from your membership? Join us for the OMB Lewis County Chapter Meeting every third Wednesday of the month at the Moose Lodge in Centralia. Connect with local professionals and learn how OMB membership can help you grow and succeed. For more information, contact Jenn at membership@omb.org.