06 NICK DRUMMOND
Six Landscape Projects
SIX LANDSCAPE PROJECTS
Nick Drummond Bachelor of Landscape Architecture University of Oregon 2015 nickdrummond 13@gmail.com 206-384-8865 6551 18th Ave NE Seattle, WA 98115
01 Cultural Capital, Corporate Campus 02 SWITCH! A Portland AIA Competition
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03 Roll On, Columbia!
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04 River Imperative
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05 PNCA Technical Drawings
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The following is a selection of six landscape design projects completed while earning my Bachelor of Landscape Architecture from the University of Oregon (2010-2015). These projects demonstrate detailed and conceptual thinking to solve complex issues at a range of landscape scales. All graphics are my own.
06 Strawberry Park Concept Plan
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Thank you for reading!
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“Can a former corporate campus become a transformative public space in a sprawling Seattle suburb?�
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CULTURAL CAPITAL, CORPORATE CAMPUS
01 Site: Weyerhaeuser Corporate Campus Location: Federal Way, Washington Size: 430 Acres Year: 2015 Focus: Master Planning, Preservation Type: Comprehensive Thesis Project
In 2016, Weyerhaeuser, a storied Northwest timber company, will relocate its corporate headquarters from Federal Way, WA to downtown Seattle. The company will leave behind an iconic 430acre campus and headquarters building, designed in 1971 by Sasaki, Walker & Associates and SOM, respectively. For my comprehensive thesis project, I studied the influence of corporations on the planning, design, and development of the American metropolitan suburb, while asking how corporate landscapes can better serve suburban placemaking in the 21st-century. Using the former Weyerhaeuser campus as a study, I utilized site design, urban design, and preservation strategies to demonstrate how a formerly private landscape can catalyze more vibrant and inclusive urbanism in American suburbia. 5
THE FEDERAL WAY COMMONS:
S eattl e (2 3 M il es)
To Dow ntow n F e d e r a l Wa y
The largely forested Weyerhaeuser Campus is transformed into a multifunctional public landscape. Anchored by the new City Hall at the former corporate headquarters building, the Commons is the cornerstone of landscape infrastructure for the suburb to urbanize around and within.
Fo re st B uf f e r Fo res t Bu f f er
Fu t ure De ve l o p me n t A re a
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No r t h L a k e R es er ve
The AllĂŠes
No r t h L ak e Park
Int
erst
ate
No r t h L ake
Residential Neighborhood
O ve r l o ok
Residential Neighborhood G re at L aw n M i xe d Wo o d l an d
We ye r h ae use r We t l an d
No r t h L ak e Re se r ve
Business Parks Commercial Area
C i t y Hal l Fo re st B uf f e r
Fo re st Buffer We t M e ad ow
H Rh o d o d e n d ro n S p e c i e s G ard e n Ta c oma ( 16 M iles)
The Nu rse r y
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ig
hw
ay
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PRESERVATION & IMAGEABILITY: With an iconic building and surrounding landscape already in place, a light touch is used in the immediate vicinity of the former HQ building. Inspired by Peter Walker’s modernist forms, a series of Sycamore Allées radiates out from the HQ building, catching the eye of the passer-by on 1-5. The end result is a more imageable Federal Way for the entire region to see.
Proposed Road The Allées North Lake Park Great Lawn
Weyerhaeuser Wetland
H
is
Former HQ Building
to
ri
c
Ax
Mobile Home Park
Wet Meadow
is
The Nursery Highway 18
Interstate 5
S. 336th St. Underpass (Existing)
Terraced Parking Lots Rhododendron Species Botanical Garden & Pacific Rim Bonsai Collection
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A VARIED LANDSCAPE: The Commons landscape is extremely diverse, providing a wide array of programmatic opportunities for users. There is a strategic balance between concentrated, heavilyprogrammed areas and vast reserves of open space.
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Playground & Waterplay
Existing Constructed Wetland
Multi-use Sport Courts Bocce & Cornhole
Mixed Riparian Woodland
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North Prome
COMMONS FOCAL POINT: NORTH LAKE PARK
Restrooms & Event Support Facilities
In the 420-acre Commons, a focal point of activity is needed. North Lake Park, located at the center of the Commons, is a heavilyprogrammed park that consolidates amenities into a multi-functional, urbane space. Bisected by the site’s central circulatory spine, North Lake Park is easily accessible by foot, bike, transit, or car.
Future Development
Bosque
Existing Weyerhaeuser Way S.
h Lake enade Lawn
Canopy
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NORTH LAKE PARK: While the larger Commons is a place to explore and marvel, North Lake Park provides basic amenities such as sport courts, a playground, a great lawn, and an event facility.
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LIGHT CIRCULATION TYPOLOGIES: Though limited public trails already existed on-site, the Commons plan drastically improves and expands the pedestrian network. A variety of trails guide users through the diverse Commons landscape, evoking the beauty of both the local ecology and distinct designed forms.
1 /4 ” M i n u s C r u she d G ran i te Path
Pla ta nus x a ce r f olia Al lée ( pleac hed)
Do u g l as- f ir Fo r est 1 2 ’ G ra vel Path
12’ 3/ 4” M inus G ra vel Pa t h
Al l ée Path
Forest Pa th
Pe r e n n i a l Wildflower Me a d o w
M e ad ow Pat h
15’-30’ M o w n Path
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HEAVY CIRCULATION TYPOLOGIES:
10’ Ped/ Bik e Pat h
The Commons is both a route and a destination. With poor existing circulation schemes, access on, off, and through the site is increased dramatically, with a particular focus on the addition of sidewalks, bike lanes, and a pleasant pedestrian experience. O ne- Way Roa d
R ain Gar den 20’ Bui ld i ng Setba ck 4 0 ’ Pa ved Path C o ncr ete S eating S tep s Great Lawn
Vege ta te d Swale
Cen t r al Bo ul e vard
Sidewalk
Nor th La k e Promenad e P r ote c te d Bike Lane
Pr i m ar y A r t e r i al
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501 B u s S to p
Existing Tw o - L ane Roa d
“Can a derelict underpass ease the transition between two neighboring districts?�
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SWITCH! A PORTLAND AIA COMPETITION
02 Site: Block at 16th Ave. & Lovejoy St. Location: Portland, Oregon Size: .9 Acres Year: 2015 Focus: Site Design Type: Competition
STITCH Competition Abstract:
“Density in the urban environment drives a need for the community to consider often overlooked spaces created by infrastructure as infill potential. Modern vehicle conveyance structures create a natural shelter from the elements and a typically “undesirable” area. We pass through or feel threatened by their cold and brutal existence. Consider how to re-stitch this urban fabric to create activated space from this underused resource. This competition calls for ideas to successfully inhabit the unused land under the I-405 bridge, connecting the bustling Pearl District with the NW Alphabet neighborhood. ”
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SWITCH BLOCK: Switch Block lights up the city. Driven by the needs of locals, it is a dynamic, user-activated space that stores energy during the day and illuminates with activity at night. Switch Block builds on the industrial aesthetic of the neighborhood to create an iconic, multi-functional space uniquely suited to the young people, urban nomads, nap-seekers, auto-commuters, dog walkers and working professionals of the Pearl & Alphabet districts. 19
SITE PLAN:
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1 2 3
FUSEBOX A space for mingling, sitting, storing, and waiting, the Fusebox caters to the Switch Block’s most ephemeral users.
SWITCHBOARD With western exposure, the Switchboard is a space for users to lounge under sunlight or starlight and take in the spectacle of public life.
THE BATTERY The heartbeat of the Switch Block, the Battery transforms from a parking lot by day to a stage for activities and events on evenings and weekends.
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Multi-Function Kiosk
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Linden Grove
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Boardwalk
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Curbside Swales
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Reflecting Pool
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Streetcar/Bus Bay
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1 2 9 8 7
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THE BATTERY: The Battery is the heart of Switch Block. A paid parking lot by day, the Battery transforms into a flexible event space that can accommodate a multitude of programming opportunities such as sporting events, performances, fairs, and festivals. It’s trademark iridescent chandelier illuminates the block 24 hoursa-day.
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CHOREOGRAPHING THE SOCIAL PERFORMANCE: A flexible urban space requires some timely programming. Using funds generated from day-use parking, Portland Parks and Recreation can ensure a safe and vibrant public space with a park[ing] supervisor. This position, similar to that at Director Park, would operate from the on-site Kiosk to monitor parking spaces, oversee social services, and schedule events/activities on evenings and weekends.
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FLEXIBLE FEATURES:
ADJUST:
RECLINE:
SHARE:
STAND N’ STORE:
LEAN N’ STOW:
SIT N’ STASH:
50 STALLS OF PARKING:
SUMMER BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT:
SAFE PLACE TO SLEEP AT NIGHT:
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NEIGHBORHOOD BBQ FEST:
DRIVE-IN MOVIES:
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SWITCHBOARD: The Switchboard is an urban promenade for lounging, sunning, and observing the hustle and bustle of public life. Wide enough to accommodate food trucks, the linear plaza also features a boardwalk, a reflecting pool, and stormwater planters. 27
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FUSEBOX: The Fusebox beckons users into the Switch Block from its busiest side along Lovejoy Street. Here, users can take cover from the elements while waiting for the bus or streetcar and grab a cup of hot coffee from the Kiosk CafĂŠ. The Switch Lockers provide seating, table space, storage, and lighting to the Fusebox area.
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“How can a city reconnect to its sacred riverfront?�
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ROLL ON, COLUMBIA!
03 Site: Vancouver Riverfront at 1-5 Location: Vancouver, Washington Size: 33 Acres Year: 2014 Focus: Site Design Type: Individual Studio Project
Vancouver, Washington was born out of it’s proximity to the mighty Columbia River. Today, as is the case with so many urban waterfronts, heavy infrastructure in the form of bridges, freeways, and railroads has blocked the city center from connecting to its sacred hydrologic lifeblood. With the prospect of a massive infrastructural overhaul to expand the 1-5 connection between Washington and Oregon, the Columbia River Crossing (CRC) spurs new opportunity for Vancouverites to re-engage their riverfront. Flanked by a future residential development to the west and Fort Vancouver via the Landbridge to the east, Columbia Landing, a new urban park, is the missing link in the formation of a vibrant cultural center for Vancouver in the 21st-century. 33
SITE PLAN:
BNSF Railr oad
To V
Columbia Green Street Connector
Tunnel Con ne
ctor
Bosq River Garden Retention Garden Sculpture Play
P l a y
The Shallow
F i e l d
l rai rT
The Slough
e
Riv
R i v e r
olum
C o l u m b i a
b
Columbia Auditorium
I-5 C
Waterfront Development
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o Downtown Vancouver
To Fort Vancouver via Landbridge
MAX amp B & ike R
Main Green Street Connector
que
BNSF Railroad
Lightfield
Tunnel C o
nnector
T h e
L a n d i n g
Gallery & Cafe
ws
T h e
P e r c h
River Trail
bia R
iver
Cros sing
Boardwalk
C o l u m b i a Rail Bridge Overlook
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R i v e r
Pro g r a m :
Stormw ater M anagement:
Fl ood Hei ghts:
Ci rc u l ati o n :
Phasi ng:
Ear thworks:
COLUMBIA LANDING: A DYNAMIC INFRASTRUCTURAL LANDSCAPE A riverfront park is an ideal land use pending the implementation of the CRC, as it can integrate a multitude of systems into its engineering and function. Columbia Landing provides a vibrant cultural space that simultaneously cleans stormwater from neighboring developments, directs automotive, locomotive, transit, bike, and pedestrian traffic, and carves out restored backwater habitat for riverine species. 36
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A VIEW TO THE NORTHWEST: The design of Columbia Landing leverages earthworks to restore promising portions of riverbank habitat while dramatizing choice views along more ecologically degraded banks. Additionally, strategic “cut and fill� allows the CRC and BNSF berm to subtly integrated into the landscape, reducing the impending height of the two infrastructures.
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“How can a university connect to a river in an ecologically, economically, and socially responsible fashion�
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RIVER IMPERATIVE
04 Site: University of Oregon Riverfront Location: Eugene, Oregon Size: 28 Acres Year: 2013 Focus: Ecological Analysis Type: Individual Studio Project
Tasked with “doing the most with the least”, a studio inquiry into the University of Oregon’s property along the Willamette River used rigorous site analysis to create informed visions for the University’s inevitable development along the Willamette riverfront. Spurred by a planned development from the neighboring Eugene Water and Electric Board (EWEB), the project asks the University to carefully consider how it can best serve all stakeholders involved, from students to researchers to riparian creatures. Using weeks of extensive site observation, ecological analysis, and historical research, the final synthesis design depicts a loose vision for a future that both enhances the health of riparian habitats while providing new and innovative learning environments. 41
SITE ANALYSIS:
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Heat Map: Human Social Spaces
Heat Map: Development Feasibility
Heat Map: Riparian Habitat Quality
HEAT MAPS: After weeks of extensive site analysis and observation, simple heat maps were created to articulate “areas of best fit� for social space, habitat protection, and development.
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HUMAN USE SCENARIO: BANK AMENDED
COMPARING RIVERFRONT SCENARIOS: Using the section transect as the primary tool for comparison, six scenarios for habitat restoration, human access, and development are tested, both with existing and amended bank conditions. 44
RESTORATION SCENARIO: BANK AMENDED
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Alton Baker Park
SYNTHESIS PLAN: With extensive site analysis and scenario comparisons in place, a synthesis plan is created to map appropriate land uses by location across the University’s riverfront property. Without favoring any one scenario too heavily, the synthesis plan represents a compromise between oftcompeting factions for prime riparian real estate.
EWEB Development
Development with Existing Bank Restoration with Bank Amendment
R I PA R I A N F O R E S T
OUTDOOR L E A R NI NG O P E N S PAC E / L I GH T DE VE LO P ME NT To Downtown
Fr an k
lin
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Bo ul ev ar d
Mi llr ac e
Aut ze
n Fo
ot B r
idg e
Alton Baker Park
Human Access with Bank Amendment
Restoration with Bank Amendment
U P L A ND P R A I R I E O P E N S PAC E OUTDOO R L E A R NI NG
Restoration with Existing Bank
R I VE R F RONT CA MP U S Railroad
Campus Operations Millrace Studios & Urban Farm Oregon Research Institute To Main Campus
“How can a low-budget park be planned to reflect the aspirations of a community over time?�
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STRAWBERRY PARK CONCEPT PLAN
05 Site: Strawberry Park Location: Sweet Home, Oregon Size: 3.3 Acres Year: 2015 Focus: Park Planning Type: Professional Project
After the completion of a parks system master plan for the City of Sweet Home, Oregon, our team of four planners and designers from the Community Planning Workshop were tasked with creating a schematic design for a undeveloped city-owned parcel called Strawberry Park. With an initial budget of only $30,000, our team conducted a series of interviews, public workshops, and community presentations to create a prioritized phasing and budget plan for the park, while simultaneously refining a final design vision to be implemented as funding allows. In October of 2015, the Sweet Home City Council officially adopted the Strawberry Park Concept Plan into their Parks and Recreation Master Plan.
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CONCEPT SKETCH: Initial site interventions will address the unmanaged wetland and install utilities for future amenities such as a restroom, playground, and spray play area. In this early sketch, the park’s strong network of existing trees is shown at full 50
STAKEHOLDER INPUT: The project team collected extensive stakeholder input to craft the final vision for Strawberry Park. Initial design scenarios were formed through interviews and a community design charette (right), while the final concept was refined at a public movie night (left). 51
DRAFT DESIGN SCENARIOS: Entry
Entry
Expanded Parking Lot
Entry
Expanded Parking Lot
Restroom
Expanded Parking Lot
Restroom
Expanded Playground
Event Shelter
Sw
il
a Tr
nd
la
et W
e
al
Sw
B C r r id os ge s in g
il
a Tr
nd
la et W
e
al
Sw
Existing Playground
il
nd
la
et W
e
ge g id in Br oss Cr
B C r r id g os s in e g
al
Community Garden
Orchard Picnic Area
Waterplay + Basketball Hoop
Large Play Field
Tr a
Expanded Playground
Restroom
Play Field
Soccer Frisbee Dog Park Etc.
Arboretum Walk Knoll
FINAL CONCEPTUAL SECTION:
PLAY ARE A
WE TL A ND A R E A
P L AY F IE L D
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ENTRANCE
FINAL DRAFT DESIGN:
EXISTING EVERGREEN TREE
EXISTING DECIDUOUS TREE
EXPANDED PARKING LOT
PROPOSED TREE PARK BENCH
The final approved concept plan includes an improved play area, a basketball court, a restored wetland area, a play field, and concrete paths among other features.
PICNIC TABLE & BENCH
RESTROOM A
GRASSY KNOLL
PLAY AREA DETAIL:
PLAY AREA ORCHARD PICNIC AREA
SPLASH PAD ASPEN GROVE
BRIDGE
SHELTER
AGES 5-12
VEGETATED SWALE
TRAIL PLAY FIELD
GRASSY KNOLL
A1
NORTH
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AGES 2-5
BASKETBALL
“How does the conceptual translate into the constructable�
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PNCA PLAZA: TECHNICAL DRAWINGS
06 Site: Pacific Northwest College of Art Location: Portland, Oregon Size: .8 Acres Year: 2014 Focus: Construction Details Type: Studio Project (Team of 2)
Using a prepared schematic design as a template, studio teams were tasked with developing a site design in the form of a complete construction set. Drawings include site, layout, grading, planting, lighting, mechanical, and irrigation plans, as well as five sheets of standard and custom details. Design refinement and detailing was informed by site’s future use, a 1/2 block plaza for the Pacific Northwest College of Art, doubling as an extension of the famed Portland Park Blocks to the south. The studio also served as an introduction to material sourcing, budgeting, and local stormwater management requirements.
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GRADING AND DRAINAGE PLAN: Using the City of Portland’s Stormwater Management Manual as a guide, studio teams crafted diligent grading and drainage plans to ensure the proper mitigation of runoff from hardscape areas into retention and detention zones.
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PLANTER DETAILS: Site details were conceived through local case studies, sketching, and digital and physical models. I focused my detail studies on the exposure and conveyance of stormwater.
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