re envisioning urban stormwater infr astr ucture the physical, spriritual, & intellectual Shannon Eldredge
re envisioning urban stor mwater infr astr ucture the physical, spriritual, & intellectual
by Shannon Eldredge I n par tial fu lfill ment of a Maste r ’s Degr e e in Lan d sc ape Ar chi tecture U n ive r sity of Oreg on June 2010
Co mmittee C hai r : Liska Clemence Chan A s s o ci a te P r o fe s s o r a n d De p a r tm e nt H e a d o f L a nd sca p e A r c h i t e c t u r e
Co mmittee Advi ser : Ke n n e t h H e l p h a n d FA S L A , K i g ht P r o fe ss o r o f L a nd sca p e A r c h i t e c t u r e
This project, along with the accomplishment of my master’s degree in landscape architecture, would not have been possible without my incredible family, dearest friends, extraordinary classmates, and exceptional professors.
To my best girlfriends for life - Karey, Shannon, and Erika - I am so thankful for your undying support, your keen listening skills, your thoughtful advice, your mutual desire for fun and adventure, your laughter, and for many years of friendship to come.
As silly as this may sound, an interest in water conservation was seeded in my brain back in the early 90’s by my twin sister, Kristi. Each night, she and I would brush our teeth together in our bathroom. Kristi would reach over and slam the faucet handle down every time I would leave the water running while brushing. It turns out, she and I had different science teachers in middle school. Kristi was learning about the importance of conserving water in her class, while all I remember is sitting next to an aquarium with a lurking piranha (no joke). So thank you Kristi, for paying attention in class and bringing that influential lesson home to me.
To my MLA classmates and wonderful friends thank you for both challenging and encouraging me for the past three years. You all have substantially influenced my ways of thinking about the world we live in, how we treat it (and each other), and designing for the future.
It would be impossible to express the tremendous amount of gratitude I have for the family members who have mentally, emotionally, and financially supported me through this journey. Their strong presence in my life has always influenced me to make the right decisions and pursue my dreams. While maybe I did not always make the right decisions, the completion of this thesis and earning a master’s degree was an aspiration beyond my wildest dreams. To my parents (Dale and Susan), my grandparents (Grandpa John, Grandma Pat, Grandad Don, and Gram Barbara), my sisters (Kristi and Devon), and to my entire extended family -THANK YOU...you mean the world to me.
Finally, I am grateful to the faculty and administration of the landscape architecture department at the University of Oregon. Since day one, my experience at the U of O has made me feel like a kid at summer camp. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as your student and will be leaving this department equipped with confidence and the proper tools to contribute to the field. An extra special thanks goes to the chair of my thesis committee, Professor Liska Clemence Chan. I dedicate the completion of this thesis to Liska’s patient manner, constructive criticism, wise insights, endless encouragement, and countless hours of review. Additionally, I would like to thank Knight Professor, Kenneth Helphand for serving as an adviser to my committee. I want to especially thank Kenny for seeing a talent in me that I did not and for making me realize that I can achieve things that, otherwise, I may have felt unqualified for. For the guidance and support of the entire faculty, THANK YOU!
Pro je ct S u mmar y
{
chapter 1
}
S tor m w ater ’s Evol ut i on:
from functional to funk and back again
E a r ly C i v i liza t io n s Pu bl i c Wor k s in t h e Un it e d St a tes M ov i n g Towa rds E n lig h t e n e d In f r astr uctur e D esi g n S h if t Th e H u m an E x pe r ie n c e by D e s ign Re sea r ch M e t h o ds
{ c h a p t e r 2}
A C as e S t ud y Catalog: 16 influential stormwater sites across the pacific northwest
I n t r o du ct i o n t o t h e s t u dy C a se st u d ie s 1- 16 S t or m w a t e r D e s ig n Pr in c iple s S u g g est e d Sit e s t o V is it
{
chapter 3
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1 4 8 14 19 22
26 28- 9 1 92 96
Designing Terr y Avenue:
an explor ation of urban stor mwater infr astr uctur e & the human exper ience
S i t e Or i e n t a t io n 10 0 I n t r o du ct i o n 10 2 C h r o n ol og y 10 4 S i t e A n a lys is - t r a n s e c t ma t r ix 10 8 I de n t i f y i n g A re a s o f Oppo r t u n ity 11 0 D esi g n I n te r ve n t io n s a lo n g Te r r y Avenue 112- 1 2 9
Co n clu si o n s
13 0
Refe re n c e s
13 2
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
multi-sensory experience
movement texture materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create result
interaction
if...then
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
relational experience
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
awe
connection release
meditation exploration pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes
instruct
learn
attention
interest
stories trails legibility puzzels
messages
history
meaning
It is no secret that our world is currently facing unprecedented weather patterns and climactic change. Water pollution and shortages are not localized issues, they are global and they are uncontainable. Such issues include flooding, toxic runoff, heat-island effects, combined sewer overflows, litter, chemicals, leaching brownfields, and more. Many cities have begun implementing remarkable stormwater mitigation programs, however, very little emphasis is placed on how to design infrastructure that educates and influences the surrounding communities. This thesis project analyzes how design can improve the human experience and comprehension of green infrastructure’s function in urban landscapes.
public interaction and providing creative educational cues and tools. At the end of chapter two, I present 13 stormwater design principles that emerged through the amalgamation of personal experiences, observations, and lessons learned. Finally, in chapter three I have applied these design principles to a design case study in Seattle, Washington. The South Lake Union neighborhood is currently experiencing rapid redevelopment, from an industrial past to a mixeduse future. The chapter presents an introduction to the site’s context, history, and current conditions, and finally, an overall design scheme for Terry Avenue North - connecting people to stormwater through the art of infrastructure.
The project is presented in three parts. First, chapter one briefly covers early civilizations and their relationships with water, then looks at the development of infrastructure in American cities and the role that public works have played throughout U.S. history. The chapter is concluded with a discussion of the current design shift toward green infrastructure and the importance of rebuilding the human connection through design and education. In order to demonstrate this concept, chapter two analyzes 16 stormwater design case studies, each encouraging intimate
At the heart of this project are seemingly impossible questions and subjective approaches to design, however this thesis is rooted in the idealistic theories that we are inextricably tied to our environmental experiences and perceptions. As landscape designers, we have the opportunity and responsibility to disassemble and reconstruct preconceived notions of stormwater - from funk to functional.
{ c h a p t e r 1 } st or m w a t e r’s
evolution :
from functional to funk and back again
http://pixdaus.com/single.php?id=136909
Ancient Roman aqueduct systems deliver water to urban civilizations. Elaborate statues represent mythical characters.
Early C iviliz at ion s functional, spiritual design Civilizations dating back to antiquity have utilized water to provide both functional, utilitarian services and iconographic, artful amenities. The first manipulations of water’s natural path were irrigation channels, constructed to convey water into agricultural landscapes where water was otherwise absent. This manipulation allowed civilizations, such as the Persians, to flourish in harsh, inhospitable landscapes. Ancient Roman civilizations were the first to develop innovative technologies to move and display water, such as drainage and sewer channels, aqueducts and pressurized fountains. The first aqueduct is said to have been constructed around 312 B.C.. Waterways and canals soon took on the function of transportation routes or defense mechanisms (motes), which lead to the creation and formation of cities on waterfronts.1
functional systems. For example, in the paradise gardens of Islamic culture, the chahar bagh represented the religious beliefs that water was the source of life in an otherwise desolate landscape. Classical Greek and Roman cultures would elaborately embellish their innovative technology with statues of mythical characters believed to be the providers and protectors of water as a sacred source. Contrary to the formalism of paradise gardens and the extravagance of the classical world, early
While early utilitarian water systems served basic human needs, water was also acknowledged and celebrated as a precious or sacred resource through a civilization’s religious beliefs or mythical tales. Elegant design elements were integrated into the planning of 1 For a comprehensive look at the world’s history of water and wastewater systems, visit: www.waterhistory.org. Wylson, Moore, and Jellico are three authors whose writings illustrate the history of water in connection to ancient architecture and the development of cities.
http://throughtheoculus.blogspot.com/2009/03/water-in-islamic-architecture.html
Example layout of a four-cornered Chaharbagh, Persian Paradise Garden
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Image Source: http://colloidfarl.blogspot.com/2008/04/tirta-empul-part-2.html Image Source: (top): http://www.pictureninja.com/pages/japan/buddhist-temple-water-drinking.jpg; (bottom): Shannon Eldredge 2008
Chinese and Japanese civilizations believed that mankind was intrinsically part of nature. Asian cultures expressed their spirit and respect for water through minimal, naturalistic design – mimicking the beauty and tranquility of natural systems. Many cultures perform rituals, honoring water as a spiritual purifier. The bathing pool fountains at a Balinese Temple, Pura Tirta Empul (top
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left image), are regarded as sacred for making offerings, prayers and blessings. “Each of the spouts has a separate and distinct divine and physical purpose. There are waterspouts that are to cure illnesses and some for mental peace. There are designated spouts for prosperity and even for pregnancy” - http://colloidfarl.blogspot.com/2008/04/ tirta-empul-part-2.html. Similarly, in Japan, Buddhist temples offer a source of water for drinking before entering. The water is believed to offer
“Landscapes that create an illusion of a better world while depriving us of the actual means of achieving it are not sustainable. If the perceptual function of a technology is to convince us the world is a more pleasant place, while the practical dimension of the technology functionally contribute to making the world worse, something is critically out of balance� (Thayer 1993, p.310).
wisdom, health, and longevity, although you may only choose two of the three to wish for -- taking three sips is considered greedy and can bring you misfortune. Throughout the world and over the centuries, humans have dramatically advanced technologies for sourcing, conveying, and treating water to provide for much larger and widespread populations. However, along the way we have lost a spiritual connection to this invaluable resource. Cities evolved in areas where there was ample opportunity for transportation, shelter, agriculture and eventually industry. Naturally, waterfront locations provided populations with the opportunity to construct ports and canals, irrigation systems, drinking water and sewage systems, energy generators, as well as convenient locations for waste disposal. Once degraded water quality (usually noticed by foul stench) and the spreading of diseases (such as cholera and yellow fever) were linked with unsustainable water practices, cities would eventually engineer pragmatic urban water infrastructure to solve these issues, which bring us to the presentday web of pipes hidden beneath our visible landscape. Today we live in a world where the majority of water in urbanized areas immediately
disappears, whether it is toilet-flushing water or the rain falling on our rooftops. In the United States, sanitary sewer and stormwater drainage systems have been buried beneath our feet for close to two centuries. We are comfortably accustomed to the out-of sight, out-of-mind systems that carry and treat our refuse stormwater and wastewater. Subsequently, we are completely detached from the origins
Image: Shannon Eldredge
(Above) Behind a grocery store, employees discard cigarette butts into a storm drain; (below) Oil rainbows from parked cars slither into local waterbodies.
of our seemingly inexhaustible sources of water. We are so detached, it seems perfectly commonplace to use a stormwater drain as an ash tray for extinguishing and discarding 3
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cigarette butts, or to allow the oils and toxins from our cars to leach into the same drain that releases into the creek that your kids and dog may to play in.
P u b l i c Wo r k s i n t h e U n i te d S ta te s
As a result of our disconnect, many people are blind to the seriousness of modern-day issues, such as over-consumption, drought, pollution, and effects of climate change. Nevertheless, I believe that, more importantly, we are stripped of the deep sensual awareness and spiritual relationship that once existed between mankind and his/her dependence upon water as a fundamental system of all living things. For this reason, I intend to use this thesis as a vehicle to emphasize that we as architects of living environments are not only inherently responsible for the health, safety and welfare of human and natural sustainable systems, but that we must embrace every opportunity to design places that inspire, educate, and influence society.
According to the American Public Works Association who compiled the first recorded History of Public Works in the United States 1776 – 1976:
Before we enter a discussion of how to rethink or reconsider the systematic and symbolic functionalism of stormwater and sanitary systems that American cities have evolved with, it is essential to understand some brief history of our nation’s agencies who implemented these systems and how they contribute today.
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an agent for weaving social and ecological function into the built environment
“Public Works are developed by and for the benefit of people. Designed to protect and enhance the human environment, they represent investments in the future for the people who create them and for succeeding generations.” (Armstrong et al. 1976, p.1). In our country, public works are most notably recognized for programs commissioned during the Great Depression, such as the Works Progress Administration (WPA), the Public Works Administration (PWA), and the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). During this time period, a reported 8.5 million people were employed by one of these public works programs, producing and improving over 500,000 miles of roads, erecting 78,000 bridges, and building thousands of schools, hospitals, courthouses, and sanitation facilities (Armstrong et al. 1976, p.10). Some of our country’s most well crafted and beloved buildings, landscapes,
“Public works were once a source of pride in a community, designed with prestige to proclaim the dignity of public needs. But in the last half-century such projects have lost much of their pride of place. Stripped of all design expression other than explicit functionality, they are often tucked away in forgotten corners of towns, or hidden behind fences that disguise their important public purpose” (Sensenig 2004, p.6).
Image Source: http://content.lib.washington.edu/cdm4/item_viewer.php?CISOROOT=/civilworks&CISOPTR=57&CISOBOX=1&REC=1
Men working for the Civil Works Administration, laying drainage pipe in Redmond, Washington in February 14, 1934.
and infrastructure systems derived from this era. In Washington State, for example, public works groups built the Grand Coulee Dam, Lake Washington’s Floating Bridge, and the Olympic National Park system (Kindig 2009). While The Great Depression is ingrained in American history as time of hardship and
devastation, the public works programs and resulting projects should be recognized as a precedent for the rebuilding of both social and environmental landscapes. Unfortunately, since The Great Depression we have not experienced as much deliberate attention to the function and form of public works projects. In a recent design entry submission for the 2004 5
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Image: Murase Associates
Image: Shannon Eldredge
Willamette Water Treatment Plant, Wilsonville, Oregon Case Study on page 48
WaterWorks Garden, Renton, Washington Case Study on page 68
EDRA Places Awards competition, Miller|Hull and Murase Associates were recognized for their collaboration on the Willamette Water Treatment Plant in Wilsonville, Oregon. Chris Sensenig, who authored the entry, reflects upon the designer’s “attempt to put the ‘public’ back into public works”. As introduction to the design team’s principle of Infrastructure as Place, Sensenig states that: “Public works were once a source of pride in a community, designed with prestige to proclaim the dignity of public needs. But in the last halfcentury such projects have lost much of their pride of place. Stripped of all design expression other than explicit functionality, they are often 6
tucked away in forgotten corners of towns, or hidden behind fences that disguise their important public purpose” (Sensenig 2004, p.6). As populations continue to grow and densification of cities occurs, these public spaces become crucial constituents within the urban fabric. They pose opportunities to overlay multiple social and ecological functions, for example, providing public open space, public artworks, recreation, green infrastructure, sensitive habitat restoration, community gathering spaces, environmental education, and more. Included in Chapter Two of this thesis, a Case Study Catalog investigates sixteen exemplary stormwater-focused projects
“Ecological spaces, especially those in close proximity to urbanized areas where most people live, should be appealing aesthetic experiences. If we expect the public to enthusiastically reorganize its environmental preferences, the ecological landscapes themselves should engage public interest and motivate support for their expansion and replication. This is central to the promotion and acceptance of ecological design” (Mozingo 1997).
between Seattle, Washington and Eugene, Oregon. A select few are notable public works projects, such as WaterWorks Garden, and the Willamette Water Treatment Plant, which demonstrate a more recent movement toward the thoughtful integration of social and environmental amenities. In February of 2009, President Obama promoted a stimulus plan to help create more jobs in America. This plan included $100 billion for public works projects across the country. While that may seem like a tremendous booster for landscape architects and civil engineers to team up on implementing new sustainable, green infrastructure projects, most of those dollars will go toward transportation improvements, and, according to Michael Cooper of the New York Times, “…that is only a fraction of the $2.2 trillion that the American Society of Civil Engineers says is needed to put the nation’s infrastructure into a state of good repair. And much of it is likely to be spent on small needs sprinkled throughout the 50 states — repaving a road here, painting a bridge there — rather than on bigger, more transformative, but slower projects” (Cooper 2009). While public funding is always going to pose an issue and traditionally causes cuts on some of the more unique, artful, character-building,
custom-designed elements - especially in the landscape - several projects have been realized through dedicated partnerships between designers, artists, engineers, community members, and public representatives. Among many of the case studies I researched, additional dollars were sought through grant money, private interest groups, fundraising, and creative masterminding of allocated government funds – for example, with WaterWorks Gardens in Renton, WA, artist Lorna Jordan, along with landscape architects from Jones & Jones, collaborated with the engineering team and the treatment plant manager on combining set budgets (specifically, a stormwater budget and a one-percent-for-art budget). By combining these dollars the team worked together on a holistic design, seamlessly unifying its ecosystem services with artful elements of human delight (Gonzalez 1998). As I previously mentioned, public works projects are rooted in serving and sustaining the health and vitality of a community. The absolute value of these facilities lies within the overlapping amenities it provides for both the human and natural environments. Of course, more funding may facilitate more grand design, but ultimately it is not about expense – it is about experience. Louise Mozingo wrote in her 1997 Landscape Journal article The Aesthetics of Ecological 7
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Design: Seeing Science as Culture, “Ecological spaces, especially those in close proximity to urbanized areas where most people live, should be appealing aesthetic experiences. If we expect the public to enthusiastically reorganize its environmental preferences, the ecological landscapes themselves should engage public interest and motivate support for their expansion and replication. This is central to the promotion and acceptance of ecological design” (Mozingo 1997).
connecting to a cistern. They are amazed at how much water can be harvested and how much money can be saved by reusing graywater for irrigation. Last but not least, the kids climb up to the look-out shelter on top of a giant installation art feature / jungle gym, made out of recycled toilet parts, for a view of the source itself, the river. 2
A hypothetic scenario may help illustrate the idea of experiential design leading to public interest and the educational connection between human and ecological systems. Imagine a young family lives in a neighborhood one mile from a water treatment facility. Every Saturday morning they take a walk on a greenway path that leads them to the open space surrounding the facility where the kids can play in open runnels and with the waterwheels – pumping water to make it spin. A peek through the windows of the buildings is always interesting because you can see the process your drinking water goes through before it comes to your tap. Interpretive signage explains the process while different buttons can be pushed to learn more about the groundwater and how to protect it. The adults admire the greenroof and disconnected downspouts
rethinking conventions
M ov i n g Tow a rd s Enlightened I n f r a s tr u c tu re Historically, landscape architects and urban designers in the United States have pioneered living systems to solve the clash between human and natural environments. One of the most renowned stormwater and wastewater transformations is Frederick Law Olmsted’s Back Bay Fens in Boston, Massachusetts. Boston’s landscape is one of the most humanly altered in America. Its native habitats once consisted of lowland tidal flats and saltwater marshes. Rivers and waterways converged with the bays of the ocean allowing massive ships to import, export, and transport goods and people. Boston’s landscape is a perfect model depicting the problematic evolution of waterfront cities. 2 This scenario was inspired by the design of the Willamette Water Treatment Plant, however I re-imagined the site with a number of interactive elements and sustainable design details that may add to the educational opportunities and influence this site could offer its visitors and community.
“An estimated half of the world’s wetlands have been lost since 1900... Wetlands cover up to 6% of Earth’s surface and play a vital role in regional ecosystems. The main causes of their loss have been drainage and conversion of wetlands to agricultural or urban land, compounded by pollution. Wetlands have been described as “nature’s kidneys,” cleansing our water supply of contaminants” http://www.worrellwater.com/water_facts
Image Source: http://architecture.mit.edu/class/city/projects03/the_fens/improvementplan.jpg
Boston’s Back Bay Fens plan by Frederick Law Olmsted
Rolling hills were carved into quarries whose gravel was used to fill vast portions of the bay in order to produce more “livable” lands. With the loss of marshlands and backwaters, stormwater and wastewater became concentrated into fewer areas causing foul odors and the spread of disease. In the late 1870’s, city council acquired the land and brought in Frederick Law Olmsted, who devised a plan to remediate the noxious tidal swamp. Tidal gates controlled water levels between Back Bay and the Charles River, a sewage interceptor was installed to divert wastewater, and the Back Bay retained its
natural function as a runoff-cleansing machine and storage basin for two streams that entered the area (Zaitzevsky 1982). Populations across the United States and throughout the urbanized world boomed during the mid-to-late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries while industrialization flourished. People flocked to cities faster than urban infrastructure could be built to adequately accommodate them. Overcrowding and unregulated water systems resulted in widespread illnesses, such as cholera and 9
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yellow fever. Once these outbreaks were correlated with degraded water supply, the first underground, piped, and centralized infrastructure systems were implemented.3 Due to the negative impacts water had on many rapidly developing societies, the engineering design of this new infrastructure reflected the human-centric ideals of the industrial time period – technology was perceived as the panacea. Today, as stewards of the landscape, it is the responsibility of landscape architects and all allied professionals, to learn from both the successes and failures of the past. Over recent decades, global climate change has enlightened the world of our predecessors’ toxic creations and decisions. We continue to rely upon these conventions in our daily lives (i.e. dependence upon automobiles, energy consumption – heating/cooling, the use of non-biodegradeable products, etc.). As a result, we are experiencing the repercussions of CO2 emissions (the burning of fossil fuels), military and oil use, deforestation, and combustion for cooking and heating – which produces melting and flooding, 3 Professor Kristina Hill discusses this correlation of population boom in the United States and the infrastructure systems put in place to accommodate them in a chapter she contributed to Novonty & Brown’s book, Cities of the Future.
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extreme weather events, and air pollution. While the vast extent of climate change and its effects on both the human and natural environment is beyond the scope of this thesis,
Image Source: http://thesource.melbournewater.com.au/content/archive/april2005/river.asp
Diagram illustrating common sources of stormwater pollution.
our current knowledge and awareness of these issues have remarkably altered the paradigm of design theory, education, and practice over the past few decades. A shift in values can be seen with emerging trends toward a “green” movement throughout the realm of the design world. Kristina Hill, associate professor of landscape architecture at University of Virginia, states, “…a movement known variously as Green Urbanism, Landscape Urbanism, Green Infrastructure, or Green Design has evolved that, at its best, proposes
Green Roof - Olive 8 building, Seattle, WA
The Meriwether, Portland’s South Waterfront, OR
ways of adapting existing infrastructure to new functional goals.” She goes on, “the structures and dynamics of urban landscapes figure prominently in this evolving school of thought, including park systems, street rights-of-ways, car parking areas, waterfront districts, rainwater collection systems, stream corridors, and water bodies” (Novotny & Brown 2007, p.256). It is true that we are in the midst of a “green” design trend toward positive, sustainable urban infrastructure solutions, however I believe it is equally imperative to rethink the current comfortable conventions of daily life. By repeating the mistakes of urban infrastructural systems, we may only further impair water quality. Furthermore, we cannot learn from that which is hidden from us. Robert Thayer, author of Gray World, Green Heart states: “The first step toward building a sustainable world is then to open up our landscapes to view, such that we may learn from them where we are, how we are doing, and what we need to do to make the world better. Opacity and fakery in the landscape ultimately only serve to perpetuate the unsustainable status quo” (Thayer 1993, p.311). Designers, artists, engineers, public agencies, and policy makers in the Pacific Northwest have jumpstarted the “green” movement with a
12th Avenue Green Street, Portland, OR
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special emphasis on stormwater management. The mild, temperate climate (accumulating an average of 38” of rain per year) provides the perfect platform for testing new technologies developed to revert the process of stormwater from the pipe back toward its natural cycle. Emerging technologies in the Pacific Northwest, such as greenroof design, street and parking lot retrofits, rain gardens,
bioswales, disconnected downspouts, cisterns, stormwater reuse technology, and more, have captured international attention, providing a model for action (images to the left: top - Olive 8 greenroof, downtown Seattle, middle - The Meriwether Building, Portland South Waterfront District, bottom: SW 12th Ave. green street, downtown Portland). Non-government and not-for-profit organizations have also added to the allure of the “green” design world. Leading such groups are the US Green Building Council (USGBC) and their Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) credits, the Living Building Institute (LBI) and their Living Building Challenge “imperatives”, as well as the emerging Sustainable Sites Initiative system (which is in its final stages of developing a point-value system). Each has initiated competitive ranking systems for sites, buildings, and neighborhood development. Aggressive requirements and point systems challenge designers and developers to perform measures of sustainable strategies that may otherwise be omitted due to excess cost, time, permitting, etc. Certain systems offer a scale of achievement, for example, the USGBC’s LEED certification offers silver, gold, and platinum levels. The Living Building Challenge, on the other hand, takes a much more stringent approach, requiring
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“…the new institutions needed for a transition to a sustainable world must ultimately be based upon the perception an comprehension of the ordinary people who will create them.…a critical purpose of the sustainable landscape is the demonstration and diffusion of environmentally and socially sustaining principles into common usage in the everyday world” (Thayer 1993, p.309).
100% achievement of all prerequisites, which is only granted after one year of successful, performance-based function.4 These organizations and their well-received, marketable certifications, aid the design industry in persuading the use of sustainable strategies, however most of them are missing a key segment of sustainability, which is educating and influencing the occupiers. Anyone can buy into the idea of being “green”, “sustainable”, “regenerative”, or achieving the “living challenge”. These somewhat trendy terms seem to promote a superficial status if users of these spaces are ignorant of the interconnected relationships between themselves, their built environments, and their basic utilities. My mission is to advocate for a transparent synergy between all living systems that are a part of our everyday lives. By intentionally designing transparent systems, a new paradigm – a new cultural understanding – of the function, meaning and value of ecologically resilient cities could be attained.
4 I researched each of these sustainable rating systems and their application toward the landscape during a summer internship (2009) at a Seattle-based firm, The Berger Partnership. A comparative study was produced, investigating 9 precedent studies through 9 sustainability categories related to both The Living Building Challenge and The Sustainable Sites Initiative. Interestingly, the Living Building Challenge is the only rating system (that I’ve come across) requiring categories such as “Beauty & Spirit” as well as “Education & Inspiration”. The bigger question is how can that be measured or considered “achieved”?
Teens experiencing rain’s action through the Mt. Tabor Middle School rain gardens. Photo from Kevin Perry, Nevue Ngan Associates.
This design encourages people to closely interact with the water and playfully cross over the constructed check dams. Photo author unknown.
Children catch a glance at the historic blueberry bogs along the Mercer Slough - over time they may notice seasonal changes and fluctuations. Photo: www.flickr.com/photos/99935686@N00/2945169995
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Design S h if t influencing environmental values & awareness Sustainability standards have pushed the envelope within the design industry. These rating systems (LEED, LBC, SSI, etc.) are typically based upon “the triple bottom line,” including ecological health, social justice, and economic prosperity. Consequently, minimal research has been attributed to whether or not “green” buildings, landscapes, or technologies have actually influenced the users’ comprehension of their environmental or ecological benefits. Furthermore, it is questionable whether or not people’s environmental values and ethics have been enhanced and/or affected by a spiritual or intellectual connection to these systems or spaces. Due to their subjective and qualitative nature, it is not surprising that measurements of environmental comprehension and value are excluded from most sustainability ranking systems. I would argue, however, that the standards of these ranking systems are missing a fundamental component within the sustainability equation - that is the influential power of the human experience. If we continue to develop urban societies and cultures that lack a fundamental understanding and emotional connection to the intrinsic value of natural systems, I believe true “sustainability” is not 14
realistic. Leading the Shift in Perception As designers of the landscape, we have the greatest opportunity to inspire and foster the relationship between humankind and the natural systems we are dependent upon. Landscape architects and urban designers need to lead a paradigm shift, changing the perceptions of stormwater from “funk” (meaning - piped, underground, out-of-sight and out-of-mind) back to functional. If stormwater can be returned to the surface, we may take a huge step towards visibly linking the health and vitality of our natural environments with that of our families and communities. My hypothesis is, in order to trigger these correlations, designers need to begin their process by considering the physical, spiritual, and intellectual experiences one may encounter in the landscape. I believe these experiences influence one’s landscape understanding and environmental values. It is with this project that I aim to generate design principles that will elicit an emotional attraction to places and systems. In his book Gray World Green Heart, Robert Thayer addresses the idea that the physical expression of systems can alter cultural values about the environment. He states that “…the new institutions needed for a transition to
John Lyle states in his book Regenerative Design for Sustainable Development, that “if we can manifest the inherent elegance of ecological processes in visible forms, those forms will become symbols for the times [and will be] meaningful, even beautiful, in terms of process and context” (Lyle 1996, p.45).
a sustainable world must ultimately be based upon the perception an comprehension of the ordinary people who will create them. In turn, their ultimate reality is in the land and spaces around them. The small steps taken to build sustainability into the local landscape in discreet, manageable chunks which people can observe, try out, experience, and improve are actually large steps for humankind…a critical purpose of the sustainable landscape is the demonstration and diffusion of environmentally and socially sustaining principles into common usage in the everyday world” (Thayer 1993, p.309). While Thayer addresses the transition of perception and comprehension, another
important theorist acknowledging cultural perceptions of the environment is Amos Rapoport. His research, discussed in his book The Meaning of the Built Environment – a Nonverbal Communication Approach, illustrates how we as designers of urban environments can develop a set of behavioral codes or cues that evoke certain responses from their inhabitants. These cues are communicated through what Rapoport calls “messages or schemata,” which we encode through a given expression in the built environment, then decode to understand. “The cues are meant to elicit appropriate emotions, interpretations, behaviors, and transactions by setting up the appropriate situations and contexts. The
Image Source: From Amos Rapoport’s book The Meaning of the Built Environment - A Nonverbal Communication Approach, page 82.
15
chapter 1
stormwater’s evolution
environment can thus be said to act as a mnemonic5 reminding people of the behavior expected of them, the linkages and separations in space and time…” (Rapoport 1990, p.80). I infer from this research that, if related to the appropriation of green infrastructure in urban environments, a set of designed cultural cues would help generate a common language, recognizable and legible throughout a city’s unique patterns.
16
a narrow, curvilinear street (14-feet wide), lined with bioswales to slow and infiltrate stormwater. The total impervious surface area was reduced by 11% and, after two years of monitoring by students of the University of Washington, nearly 99% of all stormwater was treated through the project’s biofiltration system.6 The SEA Street prototype has not only demonstrated its successful ability to mimic the natural cycle of stormwater, it has also provided the neighborhood with an aesthetically pleasing and educational amenity. Contributing to its multifaceted success, over the past (almost) decade, is the community’s willingness to contribute to the landscape’s maintenance. “The maintenance agreement between residents and Seattle Public Utilities encourages neighbors to get to know each other while they care for the plants in their shared right-of-way garden” (http://www2.cityofseattle.net/util/tours/seastreet/slide7.
A Practical Transformation – Case Study Over many decades during the 20th century, water quality and aquatic habitat have been severely degraded in a Seattle creek adjacent to a medium density suburban housing development. Piper’s Creek once supported the delicate lifecycle stages of salmon habitats in the Pacific Northwest. After years of stormwater runoff being dumped into the creek, the water temperatures rose, toxicity levels increased, and scoured gravel beds could no longer support the salmon’s needs. In 2001, efforts were made by Seattle Public Utilities to reestablish the health of the water channel by implementing a natural drainage system (NDS) approach. A pilot project, titled Street Edge Alternative (SEA) Street, was designed to retrofit one typical suburban right-of-way. This prototype includes
Neighbors have taken pride and ownership in their “green” infrastructure as a symbol of their care and concern for the health and restoration of Piper’s Creek. According to an online tour presentation put together by the City of Seattle, the new green infrastructure has created a “garden street” which provokes a sense of place for the neighborhood and
5 Definition of mnemonic: Something used to assist the memory, as an easily remembered acronym or verse. (http://www. webster-dictionary.org/definition/mnemonic)
6 Factual information on the SEA Street project came from the City of Seattle’s online tour website: www2.cityofseattle.net/util/ tours/seastreet.
htm).
“SEA Street evokes environmental awareness and action… stewardship by design” -www2.cityofseattle.net/util/tours/seastreet/slide7.htm
Image Source: http://www.slideshare.net/cntweb/ sustainable-in-seattle-from-street-edge-alternatives-to-city-standards
Image Source: http://www.djc.com/news/en/12001713
Street Edge Alternatives (SEA) Streed prototype project, Seattle, WA.
Curvilinear street design slows traffic and reduces impervious surface area.
inspired many individuals to get involved with local organizations to improve water quality and stream health. The website states, “SEA Street evokes environmental awareness and action… stewardship by design” (www2.cityofseattle.net/util/tours/seastreet/slide7.htm). I share this case study as a practical example to prove that the citizens of the Pacific Northwest are willing candidates, ready to embrace new perceptions of stormwater’s function and form. Portland and Seattle have already spear-headed some of the most innovative
stormwater designs across the country, however, most of these examples reside just outside the urban core. It is time to puncture the solid, impervious grid of the cityscape, find every opportunity to peel back the surface, and reimagine a transparent, regenerative stormwater system as an integral part of urban design and planning.
17
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Philosophy of Experience Along with landscape architects and urban designers, many philosophers and environmental psychologists have developed theories depicting the intricacies of the human-nature relationship and its evolution over time. A few key individuals help to prove the point that a deep-rooted relationship with nature can and should lead to a stronger sense of responsibility and connection to our environment. In Susan Herrington’s book On Landscapes, she refers to philosopher William James’s theory that, “…belief is not based on simply evidence and a desire to believe…[it] is informed by experiences. We can’t simply want to believe in something, we must feel it is true. This places our experiences with landscapes at the heart of why they matter” (Herrington 2008, p.110). Herrington also recounts philosopher Arnold Berleant’s connection between an aesthetic experience and our awareness of the world. She paraphrases his beliefs, “…that at the heart of an aesthetic experience – as well as what it means to be human – is the fully engaged, multi-sensory awareness of the world, and it is the ‘urban environment that holds the greatest possibility of achieving it’” (Herrington 2008, p.125). 18
Finally, Herrington supports philosopher David Hume’s argument that, “… ‘ideas are not purer forms of sensations, but on the contrary, merely the fainter replica of these impressions.’ It is our visceral interactions with the world that form our ideas about it. Hume’s theories are relevant because, like other art forms, landscapes don’t always carry literal messages, but can trigger sensations” (Herrington 2008, p.114). Along with the aforementioned philosophers, many theories, posed by experts in the literary world of landscape architecture, have seeded my inspired investigations, such as Elizabeth Meyer, Anne Whiston Spirn, Louise Mozingo, Robert Thayer, John Lyle, Kristina Hill, Douglas Porteous, and more. Many of their written works were like poetry to the seed of my developing thesis. Their collective ideas upon the value and influence of the human experience continued to feed the questions I felt were the most ambiguous, yet the most interesting to answer. In many respects, through constantly referring to my favorite luminaries and through my own experience in researching, writing, and designing this project, I have realized that there are no linear answers or directions, and it will be impossible to “red-rover” everyone into believing what we, as designers,
“Design which highlights nature’s processes for our contemplation permits the experience of a sense of unity with a larger whole which is the universe in which we live” (Spirn 1988, p.109)
think is “best”. We can only convince what may be “better” through designing exemplary precedents, modeling places that physically, spiritually, and intellectually stimulate a positive human experience.
The Human Experience by Design Up to this point, I have laid the groundwork to assert that not only do landscape architects need to lead the energy force behind a movement to re-envision the form and function of urban stormwater infrastructure, but also we must consider the power and perpetual value of the human experience. If we are truly aiming to develop a new “sustainable” typology, it can only be sustained from generation to generation if we are deeply in touch with and respectful of the resource itself. The key to building this relationship, I believe, is initiated by educating the user through experiential design. We need to re-boot, re-start, and re-charge urban dwellers’ perceptions of stormwater from funk to functional by rekindling an innate, biophilic notion that humans depend on, and must live harmoniously within, nature’s budget.
for, natural systems.7 In no particular order, the first sphere considers the physical dynamics of the environment, the second provokes a spiritual connection, and the third proposes intellectual stimulation. Each of these spheres then overlaps with its adjacent neighbor to form a subcategory of influence; at the intersection of all three spheres lives the heart of my theory – how design may manifest powerful, influential human experiences. In order to further articulate my hypothesis, I will briefly address the significance of each sphere and their interrelated properties.
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space seasonal change sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow
PHYSICAL
multi-sensory experience
movement texture materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create result
interaction
if...then
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
relational experience
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
awe
connection release
meditation exploration pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility history
instruct
learn
attention
stories puzzels
meaning
I propose three spheres of influence that, fused together, may create pivotal human experiences in the landscape, thus enhancing both our comprehension of, and intrinsic value
7 For the purposes of this project, I am specifically applying these principles to stormwater infrastructure, but I believe these principles are applicable to influencing a broad spectrum of human-nature relationships through design.
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Primary Spheres: Physical: The physical dynamics of our environments initiate our decision-making process. Spatial arrangements guide our movement through the landscape and culturally recognizable cues may determine our behavior. Physical details and materials provide opportunities to reveal ecological process (i.e. seasonal change, evolution, temporality, transformation, flow, etc.). These physical details should be carefully designed to activate human interest through multi-sensory experiences, triggering a spiritual connection and intellectual cognition. Spiritual: We all hold a special, emotional connection to some scale of outdoor environment, whether it is the view from a mountain-top or an urban pocket park you visit during your lunch breaks. As designers, it is imperative to create spaces that foster personal, spiritual relationships with people. Relationships may grow through the generation of spaces, which inspire imagination, reflection, discovery, and exploration. Spiritual connection to place gives one a reason to care for and learn from their intellectual associations with their surroundings. Intellectual: Landscapes provide a canvas for communication and interpretation. Designing landscapes to convey meaning and provoke people’s ecological comprehension is extremely 20
challenging. Today, the most common form of information delivery is termed “interpretive signage,” however I would argue that it is too direct and straightforward – it is typical, ordinary, and does not challenge the viewer to make their own observations or connections. Although signage effectively delivers “the facts,” this project advocates alternative, innovative, and more creative methods of communication. Overlapping relationships: Intellectual + Physical = Relational Experience: The physical elements of the landscape should encourage us to notice and comprehend the “cause-effect” relationships that occur in our everyday environments. Building upon this principle are design movements, such as ecorevelatory design, green infrastructure, and the transparency of human and natural systems. Physical + Spiritual = Multi-Sensory Experience: Sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch are all physically detected, then psychologically contemplated. Through sensory experience, we assign emotional reaction – this can range from positive to negative. These emotional reactions generate spiritual connectivity. Spiritual + Intellectual = Pedagogic Experience: Physical dynamics influence both the spiritual connection and intellectual comprehension, which fabricate the lessons we learn from the landscape as our guide.
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL texture
multi-sensory experience
movement
materials evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create result
interaction
if...then
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
relational experience
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal awe connection release
meditation exploration pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes
instruct
learn
attention
interest
stories legibility trails puzzels
messages
history
meaning
21
chapter 1
stormwater’s evolution
Research Methodology My research has lead me through a process of trying to understand how “sustainable” or “regenerative” design can provide an influential experience that alters the general public’s perceptions and awareness of why green infrastructure is a good thing how it may eventually become the new “norm”. Through this process, I began my research by exploring and cataloguing 16 of the Pacific Northwests’ most reputable and cutting edge stormwater projects. My analysis was based on my own perceptual experience. Photography and video media were used to record the physical elements and sensory experiences that captivated my attention and motivated me to comprehend water’s function. In chapter two, I the 16 case studies have been organized into a catalog, directly highlighting the most influential lessons I extracted from both my experience and additional research. In order to synthesize the lessons learned from each project, I produced a hypothesis diagram and a conclusive list of design principles. To further explore my personal experiences and test the validity of my design principles, in chapter three I have conducted a design problem on a site in South Lake Union Seattle, Washington. In this chapter, I will detail the correlations made my case study findings, site analysis, and design decisions.
Photo by Shannon Eldredge @ WaterWorks Garden
Photo by Shannon Eldredge @ Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center
Photo by Shannon Eldredge @ Cedar River Watershed Education Center
22
The photos to the left represent my first method of research - site visits to my chosen case study projects. The sketches above represent my second method of research - testing the design principles, accumulated from the case study experiences, through preliminary stages of site analysis and design. 23
{ c h a p t e r 2 } a
case study
c a t a lo g u e :
16 influential stormwater sites across the pacific northwest
“The overlay and interplay of natural and cultural processes can be employed consciously in urban design (whether in harmony or calculated discord), to fuse a connection between feeling, utility, and meaning.� -Anne Whiston Spirn The Poetics of City and Nature: Towards a New Aesthetic for Urban Design
chapter 2
a case study catalog
Introduction to the catalog
rainy season, thus, I was typically the only one there. It quickly became apparent that one of the challenges of stormwater design is the lack of human interaction during their most entertaining moments. Such realizations are recorded in a ‘lessons learned’ box for each case
A key component in developing this thesis was my personal interaction and evaluation of the following 16 case studies. Analyzing each site helped me build my argument for creating influential human experiences and, in study. I then translated the cumulative ‘lessons turn, changing people’s perceptions of urban learned’ into a flexible and suggestive set of stormwater infrastructure. The range of case stormwater design principles at the end of the studies varies across landscape scales, from site chapter. details to watershed and wetland parks. They are also represent a diverse scope In addition to an introduction to each sight sequencing open wonder of project types, from suburban site and a list of ‘lessons learned’, discovery transformation serenity imagination flow public open space to urban plaza I developed a simple bar chart to PHYSICAL SPIRITUAL awe movement connection evolution temporality symbology design. It is my intention to take visually demonstrate my subjective space teach narrative associate the lessons learned from rural or create INTELLECTUAL learn levels of connection. Each ‘sphere of didactic landscapes sub-urban examples and translate legibility stories influence’ (as I have termed them) and meaning them into design ideas for the their overlapping sub-categories, are urban core (i.e. how can I take inspiration from ranked on a range of connection levels, from Herbert Bayer’s Earthwork stormwater ring and ‘none’ to ‘extraordinary’. This visual diagram re-invent it to fit and function on the side of a is paired with a written section, explaining the skyscraper or in the middle of a streetscape?). reflections of my experience, including a critique touch
taste
smell
sound
seasonal change
ritual
ephemeral arrangement
juxtaposition
personal
views
interest
multi-sensory experience
texture
materials
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
relational experience
cause = effect build
interaction
if...then
sacred space emotional
phenomenonal
meditation exploration
pedagogic experience
release
reflection
clues
interpret
characters
cultural cues
interpretation
result
connect the dots
instruct
attention
messages
interest
trails
history
puzzels
of successes versus areas for improvement. When visiting each site, my process was similar yet non-linear. Each evaluation was based on three basic inquiries: 1. The legibility of stormwater’s process. 2. The character and spirit of the site. 3. The take away impressions or influential message. In most cases I visited these sites during the 26
If this project could be further developed, I would propose that this subjective ranking chart be used to survey a wide range of users to advance our understanding of how we may design places to foster ecological awareness and strengthen spiritual connectedness.
WASHINGTON
} }
[
thornton creek water quality channel, northgate magnuson park, sand point growing vine street, downtown seattle mercer slough environmental education center, bellevue cedar river watershed education center, north bend waterworks garden, renton mill creek earthworks, kent
[
water pollution control lab epler hall courtyard, psu lloyd crossing oregon sustainability center linda wysong, rivereast building 10th @ hoyt apartments tryon creek headwaters willamette river water treatment plant
OREGON This context map illustrates the approximate location of each case study across the Pacific Northwest. 27
chapter 2
a case study catalog
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Mill Creek Canyon Ear thworks, Kent, WA
28
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designer: Herbert Bayer Location: 742 E. Titus, Kent, WA Year completed: 1982 The Herbert Bayer Mill Creek Earthworks Park in Kent, WA was conceived as part of the Earthworks: Land Reclamation as Sculpture competition, organized by the King County Arts Commission in 1979. Along with the Arts Commission, the project was commissioned by the City’s Parks and Recreation Department. The Modernist masterpiece was completed in 1982 and has proven to serve as both an asset to the community and a large-scale stormwater infiltration park.
The geometric design approach to this park is rooted in Bayer’s Bauhaus design style and is understandably criticized through the lens of sustainability for its non-naturalistic land forms and the large percentage of lawn surface area. Although it may be a stretch according to today’s standards of sustainable design “it does make the point that an abstract landscape-that in no way replicates a so-called natural
landscape in the ecological sense - can function in a sustainable manner” (Biard, LAM pg. 72). Despite its man-made, geometric form, it has successfully proven its ability to function, slow and detain stormwater fluctuations over the past 28 years. The sculpted landscape design covers 2.5 acre portion of a 96-acre city park. It manages stormwater runoff from the surrounding 1,500 acre watershed and can detain up to 650,000 cubic feet of water before overflow spills into the city’s stormwater drainage system.
Bayer’s design is intended to provide its users with a landscape of continual change. In Bayer’s words “[the forms]...express a play of positive and negative three-dimensional bodies, light and shadow, surface textures, water, motion, and sound, all qualities of sculptural art, to make a walk through it an enjoyable experience of diverse facets of tranquility and serenity. In particular, it is an experience of contrast of geometry and harmony with nature” (Biard,
29
chapter 2
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LAM, pg. 71).
During a severe storm event, the open space is allowed to flood. Berms, mounds, rings, swales, and ponds disappear and slowly reveal themselves again as water gradually infiltrates back down to the water table. Woodcut by Kathleen Frugé-Brown
Lessons Learned •
Infiltration parks function well in climates that experience seasonal flooding.
•
Neighbors and frequent visitors of the park will recognize and identify ecological change through the seasons and over time.
•
Mimicking natural process does not necessarily mean re-creating “nature”.
•
Artful stormwater detention allows the creation of a place loved by people, versus the technical design of a dam.
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
30
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Mill Creek Canyon Earthworks
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The physical dynamics of the open waterways and interesting earthworks attracted me to investigate the site’s multiple layers. Berms, mounds, and rings of earthworks gave the space a dynamic composition to survey. The park ascends from its open, exposed grassy knolls, toward the headwaters of the stream. As I followed its path, leaving the open space, the enclosure of the woods and surrounding steep slopes began to make me feel vulnerable or trapped. Although I appreciated the intimacy of the natural creek, narrow soil path, and native vegetation (making me feel as though I could be on a trail in the Cascade Range), I also feared the dark nooks I imagined someone to be hiding in. These visceral reactions prevented me from developing a spiritual connection, however I would conclude that the physical, sculptural elements successfully displayed and revealed stormwater’s path, which allowed me to develop an intellectual awareness or comprehension of the ecological processes throughout the site.
31
chapter 2
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Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Warren G. Magnuson Park, Seattle, WA
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
http://www.seattle.gov/PARKS/proparks/projects/Magnuson.htm
google ear th
1920’s - 1970’s: US Naval Station (photo: 1953) 1970 - Present: Magnuson Park Developed 32
Image cour tesy of The Berger Par tnership & www.sky.pix.com
2009: Integrating wetlands and recreation
Designer: The Berger Partnership Location: 7400 Sand Point Way NE, Seattle, WA Year completed: 2009
$31.7 million dollars in funding, plus additional
Prior to 1916, when Lake Washington was
priority for the parks department, as it serves
lowered (approx. 10 feet) for the Ship
many active and passive uses (i.e. sports fields,
Canal Locks to connect to the Puget Sound,
beach front access and boat launching, running
Magnuson Park consisted of hilly woodlands,
trails, kite hill, a dog park, community gardens,
peat marshes, and a 15-acre lake. Just a few
tennis courts, and more). By 2001, landscape
years after the lakeshore levels had dropped,
architects from The Berger Partnership were
the Sand Point peninsula was wiped clean of its
brought on to conduct community involvement
native habitats for the construction of the Sand
meetings and develop master plan designs
Point Naval Air Station. From the mid 1930’s to
with and interdisciplinary team (engineers, city
the 1970’s, soil compaction, invasive species, and
agencies, and ecologists).
private donations. Magnuson Park was a top
toxic pollutants heavily degraded the landscape. The base was decommissioned in the 70’s and
With great attention paid to both the historic
returned to the City of Seattle for a 350-acre
and present day topographic conditions, a
public park and recreation space.
dynamic site layout formed around multiple uses and overlapping stormwater treatment. The
It wasn’t until the late 90’s, when conceptual
master plan includes 154-acres of redeveloped
parks and open space plans developed between
landscape, including:
the city and the neighbors of Magnuson Park.
•
Community groups formed to defend their specific interests for the future of the park. In 2000, Seattle’s Pro Parks Levy acquired
Elimination of over 12.4 acres of impervious surface asphalt/concrete paving
•
30 acres of new and restored wetland habitat and passive recreation areas
33
chapter 2
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•
Nine sports fields (a mix of natural and synthetic turf), which all drain runoff to the wetland zone for remediation (represented in the diagram -top right- as the sponge)
•
Public art installation
•
Environmental educational opportunities and interpretive overlooks Image cour tesy of The Berger Par tnership
Lessons Learned •
Highly degraded sites have the potential to serve as restored or constructed ecological landscapes.
•
Public opinions and desired park programs can be resolved through overlapping multifunctional uses.
•
Team collaboration with city parks and rec., engineers, and ecologists produce the strongest outcomes in design.
•
Financial support from the Seattle Pro Parks Levy and private donors made this large-scale intervention possible.
Image cour tesy of The Berger Par tnership
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
34
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Magnuson Park
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: Having lived adjacent to this park in 2003, then again in 2009 - Magnuson Park has been my running course, beach access, dog park, and open space for contemplation and relaxation. The redevelopment of the wetlands has strengthened my spiritual connection (along with adjacent communities) in sustaining the health and enhancement of this park. The physical dynamics of the wetlands offer a latticed network of wood chip trails to explore the water bodies and their emerging, abundant habitats - as an example, this past summer, dragonflies (an indicator species of ecological health) were commonly spotted whirling over the surface of the pools. The layout of the pools, grassy mounds, and meandering paths invite the user to feel absorbed by a natural, functional environment. My only critique of this site is related to the legibility of stormwater flow and processes (intellectual comprehension). I was left wondering where all of that water was coming from and where it was going. Through research and interviews, I discovered the water is collected from all of the ball fields, surrounding neighborhood storm drains, as well as the neighboring department of fisheries. I also questioned whether or not water was reused for irrigation. Interpretive signage (example, top left image) will help to identify the answers to these questions. 35
chapter 2
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Photo credit below
The Por tland Water Pollution Control Lab, Por tland, OR
http://www.millerhull.com/images/nonresidential/WaterPLab.BIG.01.jpg
Photvo by Rachel Aronson
36
Photo by Karl Dietzler
http://www.murase.com/flash/index.html
Designers: Murase Associates & Miller | Hull Architects Location: 6543 N. Burlington Ave., Portland, OR Year completed: 1997
Stormwater first enters a top tier sedimentation
The site of Portland’s Water Pollution Control
flume before it dissipates through weep holes
Lab lies just below (and South) of the St.
into the surrounding pool. Native vegetation
John’s Bridge. The 6.5 acre property has been
surrounds the pond, adapting to seasonal
owned by the city for the past 20 years and
fluctuations of flooding and drought. The
was previously home to an industrial operation.
chosen plant species work to slow water’s flow,
Adjacent to the site is Cathedral Park, which
absorb toxic pollutants, and cleanse the water as
allows public access to the Willamette River’s
it passes through each stage of the system.
pond where it is slowed through a rock filled
waterfront. One of the greatest examples this case The surrounding land uses consists of mostly
study has to offer is the success of designers
commercial buildings and residential lots.
collaborating to produce a seamless integration
Before a sanitary sewage treatment plant
of the built environment with its landscape
was constructed in 1952, all waste water and
(as well as the ecological context surrounding
stormwater was drained directly into the
the site). Bob Hull, of Miller Hull, and Robert
Willamette River. Since the construction of the
Murase, of Murase Associates, worked through
Water Pollution Control Lab and its large scale
their designs by hosting charettes to create a
stormwater gardens, runoff from approximately
holistic vision.
50 acres surrounding the site is diverted from city stormwater drains and redirected through a
This project offers a unique experience for
series of sedimentation and infiltration ponds.
the occupants of the building, the visitors to
37
chapter 2
a case study catalog
the site, and passers by who are intrigued by the inviting setting, public art work, and innovative architecture which literally spills into the landscape. Pathways and unobtrusive overlooks line the rain garden and wrap around the building, allowing viewers to investigate water’s journey through this site before its release into the Willamette River.
Lessons Learned •
City owned and operated agencies can and should set the precedent for ecologically functioning, stimulating beautiful places.
•
When designers and engineers collaborate from the beginning and throughout the design process, seamless relationships shape and fuse the built and natural environments.
•
Interpretation comes in many forms. Art speaks to many people in many ways and allows one to develop a connection to place.
Image cour tesy of Murase Associates
ImagePhoto cour tesyby of Murase KarlAssociates Dietzler
38
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Portland Water Pollution Control Lab
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: A visit to the Portland Water Pollution Control Lab during the summer of 2007 was one of the first, and most influential stormwater experiences I’ve had. The building and landscape work harmoniously to tell the story of stormwater on this site. Even during the dry season, the path of stormwater throughout the site is beautifully delineated from artful, projecting downspouts through rain gardens and into sedimentation ponds. One can easily imagine the sound of small, trickling waterfalls from every corner of the building during a rain event. An abstract art installation allows visitors additional opportunities for interpretation. Lush, beautiful vegetation is attractive to both human and animal species. This is a strong example of the physical dynamics informing the intellectual comprehension -- further provoking both a relational and pedagogic experience. I consider my spiritual connection to the site to be memorable - a sense of wonder, delight and curiosity was intriguing enough to provoke a desire to tell friends about this place an eventually a return visit.
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Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Tr yon Creek Headwaters, Por tland, OR
40 Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designer: GreenWorks, Portland BES Location: 8833 SW 30th Ave., Portland, OR Year completed: 2007
to the tributaries live, was purchased and is now managed by Oregon’s Parks and Recreation department as “upstream wetlands restoration
Tryon Creek Headwaters Project is an excellent example of an urban stormwater retrofit design, which simultaneously increases mixedresidential density as well as the ecological health of the site. Once home to commercial buildings with expansive and impervious
land”. What was considered “right of way” as well as private properties (to the East of the residential site) was redesigned as a large-scale (0.5 acre) raingarden to slow the stormwater and filter sediments before it reconnects to the native stream.
parking lots, stormwater would rapidly slough off the property and into city stormwater pipelines. Just above the site (topographically and to the West), tributaries to Tryon Creek were immediately piped and shot under private properties and major streets.
Not only is this project a model for integrating open stormwater strategies into urban planning and design, its attention to the overall improvement of ecological health has resulted in habitat restoration as well as the human acknowledgement and appreciation for natural
Collaboration of the developer, city agencies, designers, and engineers would soon re-create this property and adjacent sites to daylight and re-connect the headwaters and tributaries of Tryon Creek. The residential site was laid out
processes. Additional integrated stormwater and habitat design details include: green roofs, pervious pavement, disconnected downspouts, flow-through planters, Green Street solutions, and a complete native plant palette.
to allow the creek to run central, through the property, as an amenity to its residents. The upstream land (to the West), where the origins 41
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4-Way Traffic Stop Interpretive Area
Project Area
RT
E LV
SW Dolph Court CU
ROW HOUSES
Water Quality Swale Daylighted/Restored Creek Overlook Water Quality Swale
Restored Creek Interpretive Boardwalk
PDC APARTMENTS
(14 UNITS)
EXISTING APARTMENTS
Tryon Creek
(100 UNITS, 97 ON-SITE PARKING SPACES)
T
CULVER
Daylighted/Restored Creek Water Quality Swale Overlook Eliminated Traffic Cutoff
SENIOR APARTMENTS (56 UNITS)
Pedestrian Bridge Overlook SW Marigold Street (Full Street Improvment)
Sullivan Architects InterFluve GreenWorks PC
Lessons Learned
SW 30th Ave
Terraced Filter/ Upstream Wetlands Restoration
Concept Plan HEADWATERS AT TRYON CREEK
•
Daylighting the headwaters of Tryon Creek increased both onsite ecological health and property value.
•
Homeowners and renters understand the hydrologic process of the grounds they live on.
0
15
30
60
October 2004
•
This project is toured and visited frequently by students and designers for its impressive stormwater strategies linking through and beyond the property.
•
Looking beyond the property lines and breaking away from the constructed grid allows for system-based stormwater design.
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
42
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Tryon Creek Headwaters
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The combination of projects, across scales and land uses, makes the story of stormwater and the notion of an urban headwaters, very comprehensive. The mixed housing typologies are each designed to mitigate stormwater in a unique fashion, combining methods of green roofs, disconnected downspouts, rain gardens, grass-pave, permeable hardscapes, etc. These physical details reveal water’s literal path from each building toward the central creek, running between the buildings. The details were revealing, however, at the time they seemed unmaintained and therefore, somewhat visually unappealing. Never-the-less, I was able to visually trace and physically walk water’s journey from rooftops all the way down to the confluence of another first-order, Tryon Creek stream (see bottom image to the left - this photo shows a view of me standing at the confluence, looking back toward the apartments). My spiritual experience strengthened as I physically traced this path and found myself meandering across a gradient of high density housing, through a largescale rain garden, and down into a very private-feeling creek bed. I could imagine this final destination providing many neighborhood children with a great platform for outdoor play, imagination, and exploration. These spaces should be sacred to childhood development. I believe if I lived here and experienced this site on a daily basis, my spiritual connection would be extraordinarily strong.
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www.atlas-la.com
Epler Hall, Por tland State University, Por tland, OR
44 Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designers: Atlas Landscape Architecture, Mithun, Interface Engineering Location: SW 11th & Montgomery St. Portland, OR Year completed: August 2003 PSU’s Stephen Epler Hall is an extraordinary example of a LEED certified urban redevelopment project, integrating a beautifully designed and exceptionally efficient stormwater system. Prior to its college campus life, this site was an old gas station then a 16 unit apartment complex. Today, the hall houses 130 student units, classrooms, and academic office space within 62,500 sq. ft.
During the pre-design phase, an eco-charette included representatives from the entire design team, the city, and PSU students. In the spirit of sustainability and the desire to use this university-driven program as a demonstration project, one of the strongest features was the rainwater harvesting and regenerating systems as well as the landscape elements to support them. PSU applied for supportive grants to make these ideals become reality. Project
manager, Burt Ewart, states “Obtaining grants for the rainwater harvesting system and ecocharette were key. The grants guaranteed that the process and systems could not be valueengineered out” (Portland BPS website).
The extensive rainwater system collects runoff from both Stephen Epler Hall and the neighboring King Albert Halls (approx. 21,400 sq. ft. of impervious surface area). Rain is collected from the rooftop by gutters and downspouts, then sent through the courtyard. The water first enters a “splash box” to dissipate and slow by filtering through blue river rock before exiting and crossing the Belgian block runnels where it will eventually reach a stormwater infiltration garden.
Once the stormwater infiltrates through the soil it is routed to an underground cistern (holding capacity: 5,600 gallons). Before the water is reused for first floor toilets and irrigation, it is treated using ultraviolet light. By recycling and
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reusing rainwater as well as installing low-flow water fixtures throughout the building, Stephen Epler Hall reduces the use of potable water annually by about 110,660 gallons.
This project’s attention to design for use and interaction is equally as notable. The demonstration and celebration of water is revealed through artful and elegant elements and details as well as intuitive, linear design.
Lessons Learned •
Apply for grant money to prevent projects and ideas such as these from being “value-engineered” out of the budget.
•
Host eco-charettes with all those involved in the project, not just the designers.
•
Design the process to be intuitive. Visitors can easily “connect the drops” and understand what’s happening.
•
Design for use. An ecological, functional place can also be a people-place. Invite users into the design, create elements for their delight and comfort.
Photo by Karl Dietzler
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
46
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Epler Hall, Portland State University
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: Epler Hall’s courtyard is like a hidden jewel on the PSU campus in downtown Portland. It is a very attractive, new, contemporary feeling space that draws you in to observe the beautiful detailing. Although the courtyard is mostly castin-place concrete, it serves as a canvas for the striking physical details - which act as narrative devices for the process of stormwater between the resident hall, the hardscape, and the raingardens. Due to the compelling craftsmanship, I would say an intellectual comprehension of stormwater’s process is attainable, however, the landscape design does not tell us whether or not the water is being collected, or where it is going. Through my research I discovered it is harvested and reused for dry-season irrigation and first floor toilet flushing. If we could make people aware of this regenerative function, I believe a deeper appreciation for water as a resource may be generated.
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Photo by Murase Assoc.
Willamette River Water Treatment Plant, Wilsonville, OR
48 Image source: Murase Associates
Designer: Murase Associates (L.A.), Miller|Hull (Arch.), MWH Global (Engineering) Location: 10350 SW Arrowhead Creek Lane, Wilsonville, Oregon Year completed: 2002 Water treatment plants are not typically perceived as desirable places for public recreation or use. Up until the mid 20th century, pride was taken in the artful, placemaking identity that Public Works projects brought to communities. Infrastructural design took a turn for the mundane, becoming out-ofsight out-of-mind. Forgotten, hidden corners or outskirt properties housed many of these projects through the late 90’s. The “sustainability movement” of the 21st century has allowed designers and architects to suggest we retract our ideals of Public Works projects to the days when they were purposefully designed to celebrate both a community’s identity, environment, and the functional services they provide.
The Willamette River Water Treatment Plant gracefully invites these ideals back into the
public landscape by openly conveying water on its journey from the Willamette River to one’s tap. “Water is pumped up from the river and then flows down behind the wall through a series of filters and purification tanks. At the end of its journey it is stored in an underground tank, where it is pressurized and sent to the homes of Wilsonville” (Sensenig, Places 16:3, 8). Visitors to the site experience a beautiful representation of their drinking water’s source and process.
Transparency of the building allows visitors to look into the treatment facility and observe, while the landscape’s cascading ponds serve as a naturalistic metaphor for the artificial process occurring on the opposite side of the large sculptural, concrete wall. Elements of interpretative, educational signage explain the process that river water goes through in order to become safe drinking water in our homes.
“The Willamette River Treatment Plant is typical
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Image source: Murase Associates
of a new trend in infrastructure design that seeks to give presence to the hidden processes
Lessons Learned •
Engaging, beautiful water features attract people’s attention and admiration - this is the location that people want to linger around and observe.
•
Viewing windows, allowing visitors to look into the building and see the process that their tap water is going through, makes for an intriguing educational opportunity. It is also a link to the puzzle of where our drinking water resources come from.
•
The site as a whole can serve many purposes and encourages the community to utilize its grounds as an amenity. All future public works projects should follow this agenda - contributing to the community that supports it.
of public life. As evident here, the best of such facilities are also allowing residents to become more aware and knowledgeable of the dichotomy between the artificial technologies and natural processes that make their common life possible” (Sensenig, Places 16:3, 8).
Image source: Murase Associates
50
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Willamette Water Treatment Plant
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The notion of recreating on the grounds of a local water treatment plant seemed awkward to me, however, after visiting the Willamette Water Treatment Plant, I realized the value of this outdoor amenity to the community. The grounds are beautifully articulated with sculptural walls and a meandering water feature. This precedent provides one of the more impressive multi-sensory experiences, allowing visitors an intimate experience of the sight, sounds, and feeling of exposed water. The landscape and surrounding natural environments form comfortable open spaces for people to enjoy during the dry summer months and the building has multi-purpose rooms for the community to host meetings and gatherings year round. Although the physical elements lend to a rich multi-sensory experience, I found the actual process of the water (from the Willamette, through the facility, and to the tap) opaque. A more blatant revealing of water’s process could have enriched my intellectual comprehension and spiritual connection.
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Photo credit, pg. 54
Lloyd Crossing SUD Project, Por tland, OR
Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design Plan: http://www.pdc.us/pubs/inv_detail.asp?id=332&ty=17
52
Consulting Team: Mithun Architects, KPFF, GreenWorks, SolArc, Heartland, Urbsworks, Interface, ID, & Walsh Construction Location: 35 blocks in NE Portland Year completed: Not yet built In 2004, The Portland Development Commission (PDC) sponsored the Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design (SUD) Plan to analyze the feasibility of developing an “off the grid” district. “The overarching goal of the Plan is to reduce the net environmental impact of anticipated development in the study area over the next 45 years to an absolute level approaching that of the pre-development conditions onsite” (Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design Plan, 6).
Prior to early European settlement and development, the native landscape consisted of a mature mixed-conifer forest. The 35 block study area collects an annual rainfall of 64 million gallons. Under its current conditions, 88% of that precipitation becomes polluted stormwater runoff while only 12% is evaporated back into a natural cycle.
The Lloyd Crossing SUD Plan’s water use goals include: mimicking natural watershed characteristics, living within the site’s annual precipitation budget, satisfying all non-potable water demands through water reuse, treating all wastewater on-site, disconnecting from the municipal sewer, and disconnecting from the municipal stormwater system.
The future of this regenerative district will set a strong precedent for sustainable developments and their ability to recycle and regenerate water for multiple purposes. Sustainable design solutions are becoming more widely accepted as the public becomes more educated and accepting of their aesthetic and economic value. The Lloyd Crossing SUD Plan even goes as far as proposing a Living Machine/Cafe to be located in a central park block.
Financial investment relies heavily on predicted revenues, realized over time. The Plan clearly identifies capital costs of new infrastructure
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while revealing a predicted operational savings. For example, all recommended water saving strategies would initially cost approximately $18 million, yet over 45 years, $40 million in revenues would be gained. The Lloyd Crossing SUD Plan serves is a remarkable example of visually and graphically communicating regenerative concepts - the function, aesthetic appearance and character, as
Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design Plan http://www.pdc.us/pubs/inv_detail.asp?id=332&ty=17
well as cost-benefit analysis.
Lessons Learned •
Collection of rainwater for non-potable uses can greatly reduce the percentage of municipal water supply is needed in an urban area.
•
Groundwater recharge is nonexistent in our urban areas, the Lloyd Crossing SUD Plan would increase recharge by 22,400,000 gallons per year.
•
On average, 90% of our potable water goes towards waste water uses (toilets, showers, etc.) and 10% goes towards our consumption. Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design Plan http://www.pdc.us/pubs/inv_detail.asp?id=332&ty=17
54
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Lloyd Crossing Sustainable Urban Design
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
unbuilt 33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Projections of Experience: This project is in its conceptual design phases and could not be physically experienced yet I chose to include it in the Case Study Catalog because this project looks at a district-wide scale of stormwater interventions connecting the buildings, streets, and public landscapes to function within Portland’s annual rain budget by harvesting and reusing water, and also for the unprecedented concept of introducing a living machine / cafe at the heart of the “eco-district”. I imagine this to be the perfect setting to introduce such an innovative perception-buster. I would guess that most people would be uncomfortable or disgusted with the thought of dining in such close proximity to their waste, but if creative design can make something compelling and intriguing out of our refuse water treatment facilities, then we are prompting the public to reconceive the conventions of infrastructure.
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www.oregonsustainabilitycenter.wordpress.com
The Oregon Sustainability Center, Por tland, OR
56 http://oregonsustainabilitycenter.files.wordpress.com/2009/
Designers: Nevue Ngan & Associates (L.A.), GBD Architects, SERA Architects, Interface Engineering Location: Between SW 4th & 5th Avenues and Harrison & Montgomery Streets Year completed: Not yet built
The Oregon Sustainability Center (OSC) is a collaborative vision between a number of public and private partners aiming to produce the cornerstone building for a new Portland “Ecodistrict”. The Center is intended to serve as a “living laboratory” for green entities to collide and collaborate. Classrooms, labs, office space, retail space, and exhibit space make up most of the building’s total square footage.
The OSC will aspire to achieve both LEED platinum status as well as the Living Building Challenge (LBC) requirements. The LBC is one of the most demanding sustainability rating systems currently recognized. Status is only granted after one year of successful, performance based results. A few of the most stringent pre-requisites include net-zero energy, net-zero water, sustainable water discharge, and
compliance with their “red-listed” materials. If successful, the OSC could potentially be the first urban high-rise in the world to achieve LBC ranking.
This design team has taken the incredibly difficult challenge of achieving net-zero water in an urban setting and revealed the possibilities. A Living Machine, which mimics the natural cleansing process of wetlands, would filter and process all blackwater. Collection of solid materials will eventually fertilize the landscaping and excess treated water will irrigate planting beds. Stormwater from the entire site will be collected, filtered, stored in a 200,000 gallon tank, then recirculated for potable uses throughout the building.
Nevue Ngan & Associates have taken inspiration from Lawrence Halprin’s Portland park sequence. The building’s plaza space and surrounding streetscapes have been metaphorically conceived as a “forest floor”
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experience. Designed to contrast the bustling cityscape, a walk through this space will provide dappled sun, large wood columns, and sheltered space - an understory in the city. Furthering the OSC’s efforts to connect water through it’s natural cycle, excess stormwater and treated black water will be released to infiltrate in the Montgomery Green Street project.
(http://oregonsustainabilitycenter.wordpress.com/).
Lessons Learned •
58
Onsite blackwater treatment facilities reduces the strain on the city’s sewer treatment centers while recycling water to be re-used as irrigation for vegetation in, on, and around the buildings.
•
Public and private spaces should be planned to work together instead of separately - for example the design of this building and its open space will connect and work with the public rightof-way (the future Montgomery Green Street Project).
•
Take every opportunity to educate the occupiers of the buildings - reaveal the whole system’s processes.
http://oregonsustainabilitycenter.files.wordpress.com/2009/06/osc_water_sketch.jpg
http://oregonsustainabilitycenter.files.wordpress.com
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Oregon Sustainability Center
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
unbuilt 33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Projections of Experience: The Oregon Sustainability Center, like Lloyd Crossing’s Sustainable Urban Design, is not yet built. I chose to include this future project as a case study because of their goal to be the first high-rise in the world to achieve the Living Building Challenge (they must achieve net-zero water, meaning the building may only use collected and recycled precipitation). In order to accomplish this, the building’s relationship with the landscape is paramount. Planning for this interconnectedness between the built and natural environments, in an urban downtown setting, could initiate a turning point for decentralizing high-rise buildings from the urban infrastructure grid. In order to replicate this new closed-loop typology, the general public needs to comprehend its literal function as well as support the spirit and character it brings the city. This is yet another case where the human experience will prove to be invaluable. 59
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Linda Wysong’s Public Ar tworks, Por tland, OR
“Por tals” - RiverEast Building 60
Por tland
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
www.lindawysong.com
Designer: Linda Wysong (artist) Location: Portland, OR Year completed: varies Linda Wysong is an Oregon artist who bases her artworks at the intersection of community, urban design, and the environment. Her work is focused on addressing the cyclical nature of buildings, demolition, waste, water, communications, transportation, and land use. Wysong believes that art is not only used to beautify, but also to communicate and inform. She is becoming increasingly recognized and commissioned for projects addressing the environment and particularly stormwater issues.
One of Wysong’s most recent works, completed in 2007, is titled “Portals” at the RiverEast Building in Portland (image, left). Wysong collaborated on this project with GreenWorks Landscape Architecture to fuse together art and the landscape. Large, recycled concrete slabs were recovered from the original building’s structure and used throughout the design as art and stormwater garden infrastructure. Wysong
states, “... Portals acknowledges the industrial history of the Eastbank and creates continually changing views of the city and the Willamette River. Concrete is made from the earth…gravel, sand and rock from the river. The materials embody geology and time while the swale looks to the future” (www.lindawysong.com).
“Shifting Assets” is a series of installed stonework pieces along 3.5 miles of the Springwater Trail in Portland. Wysong states, “The sliced stones refer both to the layers of time and the areas geology and human history. The layers of acrylic serve as a metaphor for the natural - light, water and the ephemeral. The cast stones are made of concrete and layered with steel, reflecting the mix of natural and industrial influences in this section of the trail” (www.lindawysong.com).
Wysong also worked with Portland’s DOT on the “Delta Park/Vanport Station” (a MAX Line station) design. The art and landscape design
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communicate a complex historic story of the 1948 Memorial Day Flood, which killed 15 people and washed away the homes of 18,000 in this area. The constructed wetlands mitigate and cleanse stormwater from parking lots before releasing it to the adjacent Columbia Slough.
“Shifting Assets” Springwater Trail, Por tland www.lindawysong.com
Lessons Learned •
Art installation enriches the human experience of place by adding interpretive, educational elements.
Delta Park/Vanpor t Station •
By collaborating with artists, the design team is encouraged to think outside the box and work to incorporate themes of site history, hydrology, geology, and ecology into the overall design strategies.
•
Artists bring recognizable value to sites (i.e. Dale Chihuly’s sculptural glasswork is internationally known and places become famous by the implementation of his work).
•
Artworks can also be functional (artful rainwater design - green infrastructure).
Por tland
www.lindawysong.com
“Por tals” - RiverEast Building Por tland
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
62
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Linda Wysong’s Art Installations, Portland
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: I discovered Linda Wysong’s work when I learned she was commissioned to design the public artwork for the future Clay Street (Green Street) redevelopment project. The rating chart above and this reflection paragraph are based on my experience of her work at the River East Building (pictured on the lower left). Wysong’s concrete slabs with “portal” windows are intriguing to the passer by. The portal windows frame interesting views of the near-by cityscape and freeway infrastructure. The slabs do not have a stormwater function, but they make the swales across the site much more interesting and congruent. The uplighting at night gives this plaza an enchanting spirit while also making one feel more safe. The process of stormwater is revealed through large downspouts flowing into beautiful, linear runnels, then into the surrounding rain gardens. This site sets a great precedent for the inclusion of art works to elicit a human spiritual connection with the place and its function. If Wysong’s “portals” were omitted from this plaza, I would argue it would lack personality, it would be ordinary, and uninteresting. Although the artwork and rain gardens complement each other, this site is less legible for the lay person to discern stormwater’s journey. With the site’s proximity to the Willamette River, it would benefit the users of the space to understand the connection between what’s happening on site and what is released into the river.
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Cedar River Watershed Education Center, North Bend, WA
64 Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designers: Jones & Jones (L.A.), Dan Corson (artist) Location: 19901 Cedar Falls Rd. SE, North Bend, WA Year completed: 2001
lesson or message through visual and auditory
The Cedar River Watershed Education
After parking in a lot which sheet flows toward
Center provides the ultimate eco-revelatory
vegetated swales, your begin on a trail toward
stormwater experience. From the rain-
the visitors center. A small entry gathering plaza
drum courtyard to the quirky disconnected
opens to a slow stream which flows under
downspout designs, every detail within this
the bridged building and into a wide pool with
facility aims to teach its users about water.
stones stepping down into it. The trail of the
Three buildings onsite provide an interactive
stream entices visitors to follow its path deeper
exhibit hall, classrooms, and event space. The
into the center’s garden.
interwoven educational landscape, in this case, is
Once past the entry plaza and visitor’s
the real classroom.
center, long corridors of covered walkways
The site is perched above Rattle Snake Lake,
link the three buildings and line the central
with views across the water looking toward
courtyard. Green roofs on some structures
the evergreen hills. Over 90,000 acres of the
juxtapose metal corrugated roofs on others to
upper river basin are designated as ecological
intentionally display the dramatic difference of
reserve land and closed to the public. This in an
stormwater runoff versus absorption. All roof
effort to protect the watershed, which supplies
water is displayed through artful downspouts
clean drinking water to 70% (nearly 1.3 million
and creative dissipators, then tied into the
people) of the greater Seattle area.
courtyards through meandering runnels.
As a visitor to the site, you are lead through
At the heart of the education center is one of
a series of outdoor rooms, each showcasing a
the most enchanting experiential rain gardens.
cues. It is especially exciting to be present on a stormy day when the rain is truly celebrated.
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Twenty-one drums representing 9 cultural styles, play to the beat of the rain. During dry spells, a computer generated drip system releases droplets of water on top of each drum choreographed to play Native American, Afro Cuban, and Balinese (as well as more) cultural beats. Artist Dan Corson was inspired by his own “experience of sitting in the watershed’s
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
old growth forests...while listening to the hypnotic pattern of rain on the leaves...”
Lessons Learned
66
•
Art installations can fully integrate and tie together the holistic ideals of the architecture and landscape.
•
This site is reminiscent of a Japanese strolling garden -- one central focal point (central rain garden), surrounded by a sequenced path of unfolding events.
•
Use outdoor spaces as playful,
•
Exploratory grounds, or laboratories for learning.
•
Expose water and its path to users/ visitors.
•
Create examples that one could replicate at home (i.e. disconnected downspouts)
•
Re-imagine or re-interpret serenity (as Dan Corson did with the rain drum garden).
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Cedar River Watershed Education Center
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The Cedar River Watershed Education Center is my favorite example of a landscape designed to provoke experiential learning. I have visited this site multiple times to witness its change over time and most memorable, of course, are visits during the rainy season. The center becomes magical when water starts to flow from rooftops and through the constructed (yet very native looking) stream. The spiritual essence of this site is rich. One of the most innovative rain-artworks I’ve come across is the rain drum courtyard. The symphony of beats arouses a full sensory experience and simultaneously excites the viewer to question where the water is coming from and how this choreography of water is working. Beyond the rain-drum courtyard are additional outdoor spaces, I will call them “stormwater rooms,” where one encounters a multitude of artfully crafted downspouts and lush, native rain gardens. My goal with this study is to capture and recreate the emotional connection and level of stormwater comprehension I gained when visiting CRWEC. Note: The education center’s stormwater rooms complement an indoor visitor exhibit hall, which I have included as a separate case study because I feel it provides different design lessons that are equally notable. 67
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WaterWorks Garden, Renton, WA
68 Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designers: Lorna Jordan (earthworks artist), Jones & Jones (L.A.), Brown + Caldwell Engineers Location: 1200 Monster Rd. SW, Renton, WA Year completed: 1996 WaterWorks Garden is a unique amenity for a local wastewater treatment plant, surrounded by business parks, rock quarries, shipping companies, residences, and a heron rookery. Artist Lorna Jordan advocated for a “people place” to be set aside from the 95 acres of land Metro purchased for the King County East Section Reclamation Plant. To create this “people place,” a strong design team was formed to conceptualize the integration of a stormwater project with art.
The eight-acre garden has matured since its completion in 1996. Eleven stormwater detention ponds spill into one another as they follow a winding path toward the natural wetlands below. Sequenced along the path are five landscape rooms. Each room is particularly unique, adding new sensory experiences as one wanders through the garden.
The high point of the site is called “The Knoll” (left image). As one approaches this gateway of basalt columns, the sound of rushing water is captivating -- where is it coming from? Water passes below ones feet, exposed through the metal grates, as though slices of the ground plane have been peeled away for visitors to witness water’s initial containment: infrastructure. The water is then released into a sedimentation pond before it begins its journey through “The Funnel,” which is a series of constructed detention ponds (top right), cascading down the gentle slopes. At the bottom of the slope, water trickles through “The Grotto,” covered by intricate mosaic patterns and dripping with lush plants, flowers, and vines. Beyond the grotto, the pathway material changes to a soft reddish soil, curving through stands of cottonwood, red and yellow twig dogwood, and aspens -- this is named “The Passage”. Native wetlands hug the raised trail. This is the final destination for stormwater’s journey through this magical site. The final garden room, “The Release,” is at
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the lowest point of the garden where treated overflow from the wetlands would join the existing waterway.
Jordan’s design has brought a sense of wonder and beauty to the story of treating stormwater onsite. WaterWorks has successfully served, for the past 14 years, as a multifunctional,
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
educational “people place”.
Lessons Learned •
This is a great example of designing the users experience to tell the story of stormwater - only two signs were installed (one at each entry point - an illustrative map naming each landscape room).
•
Stormwater gardens are people places, educational opportunities, and reveal ecological process.
•
One percent for art budgets can creatively combine with stormwater mitigation budgets to integrate efforts and result in smart spending.
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
70
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ WaterWorks Garden
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: One of the most memorable experiences from my visit to WaterWorks Garden happened upon entering the narrow colonnade of towering basalt rocks. The powerful sound of rushing water made me feel like I was standing at the top of a waterfall. I couldn’t figure out where the water was coming from until I progressed through the colonnade and stood over an open grate - the gushing water was rapidly streaming beneath my feet (see photos on pg. 22 & 70). This multi-sensory experience launched my interest to detect the flow of water through the rest of the site. Interpretive signage helped explain the source of the water and the lay of the landscape (although it was in poor condition). Environmental artist, Lorna Jordan, tells a didactic story through the layers of landscape rooms and experiences inbetween. Her intricately detailed mosaics give this site an identity and evoke a sense of nurturing - to me it felt like a place we should take care of and maintain for generations. Because this site is on a slope, the journey of water is quite evident - jumping from one wetland pool to the next, then through the low-land grotto, and onto larger wetlands, flanking a curvilinear path. At the end of the journey lies the actual waterway where water from this system is released. I appreciate that this story has a legible conclusion. 71
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10th @ Hoyt Apar tment Cour tyard, Por tland, OR
72 Photo by Karl Dietzler
www,edc.uoregon.edu
Landscape Architect: Koch Landscape Architecture Design Team: Kramer Gehlen & Assoc. (structural engineers); David Evans & Assoc. (civil engineers); Interface Engineering (mechanical), Teufel Nursery (landscape contractor), Ivan McLean (fabricator). Location: 925 NW Hoyt Street, Portland, OR Year completed: March 2003 The courtyard at 10th @ Hoyt’s apartment building is a masterful work of art designed by landscape architect Steve Koch. Strongly influenced by his appreciation of Persian water gardens, his intricate details include runnels, troughs, chadars, pervious paving, and symmetrical, axial design.
Located above a below-grade parking garage, the courtyard acts as a green roof. Rain water is collected from the rooftops of the surrounding six-story buildings on all four sides. Elegant copper downspouts direct the water down the face of the building where its dance begins with the cast concrete chadar. Raised stormwater troughs flank each side of the central axis with illuminated corten steel fountains, each adorned with colorful glass buttons. During a rain event,
this space becomes an orchestra of delicate trickling fountains.
The central chadar lies on axis with a gated portal on the West side that opens to the street. Although this is a private courtyard, passers by are encouraged to look inside and interpret a bit of the unfolding stormwater story. Residents can open their courtyard-facing windows during a rain event and effectively drowned out the city’s noise with the sounds of a rainforest.
10th @ Hoyt has achieved many awards for its ability to successfully mitigate stormwater in an elaborate, artful manner. Due to the goals of the developer, an unusually healthy budget was allotted to the landscape design. Fortunately, Koch took that budget and created an unprecedented, beautiful, sustainable stormwater garden for so many to appreciate. Students, professors, and designers now use this site as an example to showcase the possibilities
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of stormwater catchment, conveyance, detention, and reuse.
Most importantly, this courtyard begins to tell the story of stormwater through experiential design elements. All senses are effectively tapped through color, texture, and form. One can certainly learn to appreciate stormwater in a
http://www.kochla.com/
wonderland such as this.
Lessons Learned •
Rich and intricate design elements can and should be inspired from historic conveyance methods and designs.
•
The story of stormwater can be told by thoughtful use of materials and forms.
•
Design intimate spaces for people to interact with and experience the water.
•
Critique: the whole story is not revealed -- what happens to the water once it infiltrates through the black river rock?
•
Puncture waters path with texture or small drops to gain maximum auditory effect.
http://www.kochla.com/
Photo by Karl Dietzler
74
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ 10th @ Hoyt Apartments Courtyard
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The 10th @ Hoyt Apartment Courtyard displays stormwater as an aesthetic amenity for its residents. I visited this site during the summer, so the fountains were mostly dry, however the intricacy of the design details and materials allowed me to imagine the entertainment one might enjoy during a rainy day here - especially those whose apartments face the courtyard. How relaxing it would be to hear the sounds of trickling, bubbling water echoing from the landscape below? This design exudes the beauty, spirit and celebration of water. My only criticism is that the final destination of water’s journey through the site was not evident. This case study makes me question, again, how designers can illustrate a full-circle connection between the beauty and function of water onsite and the re-use or regeneration of water captured? Can we do more to make collection and re-use transparent and beautiful?
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Growing Vine Street, Seattle, WA
Photos by Shannon Eldredge
76
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designers: Peggy Gaynor (L.A.), Buster Simpson (artist), SvR (engineering & L.A.), Location: Vine Street, Seattle, WA Year completed: 2003-2004
systems and pedestrian space. Conceptually,
Growing Vine Street began as a grass-roots,
neighborhood desired. Realistically, major
neighborhood interest group in the early
hurdles such as city regulations and funding
90’s. The group initially started the Belltown
kept this dream on hold. After 6-10 years of
P-Patch with dreams of connecting green
dedicated volunteers persisting, two catalyst
streets to the North (along Vine St.). A multi-
projects were successfully built to initiate the
disciplinary design team worked with the
project’s vision: The Cistern Steps and the
volunteer’s vision to draw up conceptual plans.
Beckoning Cistern.
these drawings, diagrams, and ideas strongly represented the utopian green street this
The team’s objectives were three-fold: “to treat roof runoff through biofiltration, to create a
The Cistern Steps cascade stormwater through
refreshing green space for the community, and
a series of tiered concrete pools, while a
to reintroduce the natural hydrologic cycle in to
curved staircase and custom crafted hand rail
our urban lives” (www.growingvinestreet.org).
artfully adjoin the stepped raingarden with the p-patch. Just up the hill and across 1st
The plans detail creative options for collecting
Avenue, Buster Simpson has installed an eye-
roof runoff from local buildings and funneling
catching work of art, the Beckoning Cistern.
it through “the runnel” (a series of wide
Inspired by Michelangelo’s Sistine Chapel ceiling
biofiltration gardens) along the sidewalks.
painting of Adam reaching out toward God,
Designers toyed with the street and right-
Simpson extended green fingers connecting
of-way dimensions in order to give and take
the downspout over the sidewalk and into the
the appropriate space necessary for such
cistern.
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Although the two catalyst projects have been highly praised and represent ground breaking leaps for green street implementation, the hope and continuation of this project lies in the hands of future developers on Vine Street. This project is an inspiration to community groups and organizations working toward pedestrian and eco-friendly urban neighborhoods throughout Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.
Lessons Learned The following list comes directly from the organization’s website -- what they learned throughout their lengthy process: •
Continuity is essential.
•
Collaboration and coordination are critical.
•
The City of Seattle should take the lead.
•
Occasionally, with luck and enough determination, impossible things can be accomplished! (www.growingvinestreet.org)
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Conceptual sketches by Peggy Gaynor
78
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design @ Growing Vine Street Project
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The vibrant blue Beckoning Cistern initially caught my attention before I realized there was a physical connection to the Cistern Steps (just one block West and downhill) on Vine Street. Because the blue cistern is whacky and unconventional, it calls people to come closer and check it out. In the urban landscape, it is not often that we find public art that features natural processes as its focal point. I visited the cistern and its circular, descending pools just after a rain event. One retention pool slowly overflowed into the next while the standing water mirrored the vine maple branch silhouettes against a light overcast sky. The path of water was easily detected from the roof of the 81 Vine Street building (photos on page 78), through the downspouts, across a runnel in the sidewalk, then to the street where, I believe, a drain takes it underneath 1st Street and re-releases it into the Cistern Steps. The view from the top of the Cistern Steps peeks between buildings and overlooks Elliot Bay - where, ultimately, our refuse water is emptied. I would say the physical elements of the site spark an interest in green infrastructure and the processes that are happening within the right-of-way. They trigger an intellectual comprehension that would enhance over time, especially for someone who may pass by this installation on a daily basis. 79
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Thornton Creek Water Quality Channel, Seattle, WA
80
www.flickr.com/photos/svrdesignco
www.flickr.com/photos/svrdesignco
Designers: SvR Design, SPU, Benson Shaw (artist) Location: NE 103rd & 5th Ave. NE, Northgate, Seattle, WA Year completed: 2009
releasing into the water quality channel. Several sedimentation ponds, weirs, meandering channels, and dense native plantings succeed in dramatically slowing large quantities of
The Thornton Creek Water Quality Channel
stormwater while allowing pollutants (such
is a prime example of integrating large-scale
as heavy metals, phosphorus, and petroleum
stormwater interventions within a dense, urban
hydrocarbons) to be treated.
fabric. The site was formerly an impervious
Most impressively, this project demonstrates
5-acre asphalt parking lot. Below the parking
an effective relationship between a restorative
lot, the creek lived in a 60” pipe covered by 20’
landscape and the people who experience it.
of fill. After years of political debate between
Although the creek is flanked by two private
property owners, neighbors, creek advocates,
properties, this public open space can be
developers, and the city, a unique compromise
enjoyed by all. A variety of paths, promenades,
allowed for the block to be divided 3 ways. A
benches and bridges allow users to simply
narrow 2.7-acre strip runs diagonally through
take a short-cut through the block or leisurely
the block flanked by multi-family housing and
wander the site to absorb a sense of nature in
commercial property to the northwest, and a
the city.
retirement community to the southeast.
Public artworks and educational interpretive
The central creek facility collects and remediates
signage guide residents and visitors through the
stormwater from 680-acres surrounding the
facility’s goals, functions, and processes. Since it’s
site. Runoff from Seattle Community College,
opening in September of 2009, Seattle Public
Northgate Mall, and surrounding roadways
Utilities and SvR Design have lead numerous
enter a diversion structure before slowly
tours for a variety of interested groups and
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individuals, educating them about this unique project’s multiple environmental and community benefits. Intertwining beautiful, ecologically functional landscapes amongst dense urban communities, such as Thornton Creek’s Water Quality Channel, effectively influences the public’s awareness and appreciation for green
www.flickr.com/photos/svrdesignco
infrastructure.
Lessons Learned •
Greater environmental achievements can be accomplished when publicprivate partnerships are formed and compromises are made.
•
Realizing that water has no boundaries -a 2.7 acre strip of land can accommodate runoff from a 680-acre circumference.
•
Water features can be appreciated from above through promenades, bridges, and overlooks.
•
Locating a stormwater system centrally and orienting buildings to face it allows for residents to have a calming, natural view and privatized (yet public) amenity.
www.flickr.com/photos/svrdesignco
www.flickr.com/photos/svrdesignco
82
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Thornton Creek Water Quality Channel
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: The new water channel offers an inviting and educational experience to residents and pedestrians. The diagonal bisect between two privately owned properties is a unique twist for the typical block within the urban grid. The sunken green space is like a lush ravine swath, protected by promenades on either side. It is interesting to note that this block is very close, in proximity, to interstate 5 and surrounded on all four sides by relatively busy roads. I noticed, once I entered the site from either the Southwest or Northeast corner, it was peaceful, quiet, and I felt removed from the busy bustle. I was able to focus all of my attention on the sounds and visual splendor of the meandering daylit creek. I think a stronger spiritual connection could be achieved if there was an opportunity for people to interact with the water - people are restricted to the raised promenades and bridges. When I visited the site, this past summer (2009), it was recently built. The interpretive signage had not been installed yet and the public art component was partially implemented. I have since seen plans for the signage and the remaining art components, which I believe will tie together the physical elements and guide people to comprehend the physical transformation as well as the ecological benefits of this new system. 83
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Cedar River Watershed Education Center, Nor th Bend, WA
84
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designer: Jones & Jones Interesting facts about water are revealed by Location: 19901 Cedar Falls Rd.. SE, North Bend, WA interactive exhibits, such as You Are Water Year completed: 2001 (image, left). You step on a metal scale while it Many people, especially school children, visit the Cedar River Watershed Education Center to learn about water’s natural cycle as well as human consumption and impacts we have on water. The Education Center’s exhibit hall offers an interactive experience that is playful and hands-on. Eighteen exhibits allow children and adults to explore everything from historic information on water gathering and use to present day wastewater treatment plants.
Visitors meander through the exhibits, experiencing them by touching, lifting, reading, pushing, looking, sliding, building, and more. Experiencing this space is like stepping into a colorful, descriptive children’s book. It is magical, surprising, and exciting while informative and suggestive. Creative titles of the exhibits include: Water is Magic, You Are Water, The Water Cycle, Forever and Always, and The Mosaic of Habitats.
calculates how many gallons of water your body weight is made up of. Did you know that your body is almost 60 to 70% water? Evidently, I have about 10.6 gallons of water in my body on a good day. Another exhibit has a large, 41 gallon jug of water next to a sign that ask you to try to pick it up. As you read on, you realize this is how many gallons of water PER MINUTE we use in a typical shower....I still recall how difficult it was to lift.
The true beauty of an education center is its ability to send one home with an experience that has touched them in a way that may influence positive future decision making. The indoor exhibit experience is exceptionally paired with its connection to what is happening just outside its walls and windows. Views are cast across Rattlesnake Lake, towards the watershed’s highest peak (which you can hike
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to) and the sounds of rain can be heard year round, echoing throughout the site, from the rain drum garden in the central courtyard. It is nearly impossible to leave this magical place without a take-home lesson.
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Lessons Learned •
Interactive exhibits should be used outdoors too. “Interpretive signage” should look to these types of designs as more interactive learning devices we can use in the landscape to more effectively “connect the dots”
•
Stronger understanding comes from a physical connection or experience.
•
This site is located in the Cascades - not easily accessible. Can these same lessons be translated with an urban backdrop?
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
86
touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
instruct
learn
attention
stories
history
puzzels
@ Cedar River Watershed Education Center Exhibit Hall
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: While I wandered around each display in the CRWEC’s exhibit hall, I began to re-imagine these installations as experiences in the landscape. What if you could walk down Post Alley, on your way to Pike Place Market, and interact with creative installations, mounted along the old brick walls and running throughout the alley-way paving. It is not unusual to drive around a downtown area and spot several large painted murals on exposed building walls. Can we treat alleyways, exposed building walls, and other unused urban surfaces as opportunities for outdoor exhibits / museums? Not only was I busy re-imagining these exhibits in the urban landscape, I had an entertaining learning experience. The exhibit room contained a variety of experience for all ages. The exhibits that are the most memorable to me were those with physical involvement paired with factual information, for example, a simple large plastic container (filled with 41 gallons of water) had a sign that said “lift carefully” and another that said “one minute shower for you” (see middle image to the left). The memory of lifting that jug pops into my head almost every time I shower now. That single, relational experience has changed the amount of time I spend in the shower. 87
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Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, Bellevue, WA
88
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
Designers: Jones & Jones (Arch. and L.Arch.) Location: 1625 118th Ave. SE, Bellevue, WA Year completed: October 2008
Upon entering the center, an adult may become nostalgic of his/her childhood tree house or
Bellevue’s Mercer Slough is a 320-acre wetland
fort building days while children are captivated
bog originating near the heart of the city,
by the ladder leading up to an actual tree
stretching out to Lake Washington. The slough
house perch. Six separate structures serve as
has been preserved as part of a natural area
classrooms, wet labs, community rooms, and a
within Bellevue’s extensive park and greenbelt
visitor’s center. Each structure sits on pilings,
system. The wetlands not only attract thousands
projecting out over the hillside as the natural
of visitors, they also support stormwater
grade flows beneath. Outdoor boardwalks link
fluctuations and sensitive ecological habitats
each structure with handrails funneling roof
within an urban/suburban context.
runoff at arm’s reach (top right), while mature Big Leaf Maple and Douglas Fir canopies lend
The Mercer Slough Environmental Education
summertime shade and a sense of landscape
Center, designed by Jones & Jones, is an
time.
architectural expression of the delicate, yet resilient ecosystem it represents. Due to
Water’s natural path is legible throughout
the ecological context and history of the
the site. First, rain may fall onto one of
site, one of the driving forces throughout the
the greenroofs, then infiltrate toward a
project was stormwater management. The
disconnected downspout. Then it would swirl
design team made every effort to protect the
around a stainless steel cable before splashing
existing topography, mature native trees, and
into the gabion dissipator and slowly flowing
stormwater function.
into a vegetated swale. If the roots from a
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nearby red osier dogwood hadn’t already soaked it up, overflow and ground water would eventually reach the wetland bogs and onto Lake Washington. The artfully detailed site design clearly communicates stormwater’s story, influencing visitors of all ages to consider where the water comes from, where it is going and how we - as
Photo by Shannon Eldredge
stewards of this preserved landscape - may protect its journey.
Lessons Learned •
A nostalgic environmental experience for an adult may encourage them to take notice of their surroundings in a new way.
•
Playful, sensorial environments inspire curiosity and wonder for all ages.
•
A light footprint on the landscape goes a long way for stormwater.
•
Preserving and maintaining an established, mature native landscape and its natural topography is one of the strongest stormwater solutions.
•
Bogs are beautiful - like a landscape painting changing its color and texture with each season. www.flickr.com/photos/99935686@N00/2945171881
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touch
taste
smell
sound
sight sacred space sequencing open wonder emotional ritual discovery ephemeral arrangement transformation serenity personal views interest imagination juxtaposition flow seasonal change
PHYSICAL
materials
evolution
temporality
space
cause = effect build
create
interaction
if...then
result
SPIRITUAL phenomenonal
multi-sensory experience
movement texture
awe
relational experience
connection release
meditation exploration
HUMAN EXPERIENCE
pedagogic experience
symbology reflection
clues
teach interpret characters narrative cultural cues interpretation associate connect the dots
INTELLECTUAL
didactic landscapes interest
messages
trails legibility
attention
instruct
learn
Experience & Connection to Stormwater Design
@ Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center
stories
history
puzzels
99%
Extraordinary:
66%
Memorable:
comprehensive & emotional connection was successful
Left an impression and an interest to return
33%
Satisfactory:
Somewhat interesting
l
evels of connection
meaning
No connection
Spiritual Connection
Physical Dynamics Relational Experience
Multi-sensory Experience
Intellectual Comprehension Pedagogic Experience
Reflections of Experience: After interviewing Mark Johnson, the project’s lead architect from Jones & Jones, and reading a recent article in LAM, I visited the MSEEC with pre-conceived impressions of its design intentions and stormwater function. I will report that my high expectations were met, however, with the lay visitor in mind, I would make a few alternative suggestions. I visited this site once on a dry, summer day, and again during the wet, rainy season. On both occasions, the story of stormwater’s path through this site is revealed through greenroofs, gabions (repeated in retaining walls, seat-walls, splash dissipators, etc.), and industrial scuppers, downspouts, and gutters. Although the legibility of stormwater’s flow across the site was strong, for me the site was lacking a creative uniqueness. The physical elements tied the site together, but they did not render a distinct character, or punctuate the rare beauty of the place. I believe this site could benefit from integrating artistic interpretations of the juxtaposing ecological function of the slough to the adjacent urban landscapes - adding more memorable and unique qualities in order to provide the visitor with a deeper spiritual connection. I think the Cedar River Watershed’s rain drum garden is a great example of integrating sensational, influential, placespecific art to help narrate a landscape’s story. 91
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Urban Stormwater Design Principles:
hat we shall wear is the artist’s. In order for
As landscape architects and urban designers, we
landscapes to be cared for, maintained, and
must wear many hats (from multi-disciplinary
preserved over time, they must be meaningful.
team leaders to artists of the landscape). I
By ‘meaningful’, I assert that a landscape should
propose three analogous hats for designing the
appeal to many different people for many
future of urban stormwater infrastructure: the
different reasons. Aesthetics play a dominant
inventor’s, the educator’s, and the artist’s. Let me
role in human attraction, and strongly contribute
explain. First, by wearing the inventor’s hat, we
to our spiritual connection to a place. Whether
must challenge the conventional methods of
we are designing a plant palette (considering
thinking, designing, and modeling by inventing
color, texture, seasonal change/interest, plant
new innovative ideas and technologies. Also,
maturity over time, etc.), site details (custom
as inventors, we must think outside the box,
drain covers, benches, lighting, etc.), or working
use creative problem solving skills, predict
with an artists to include interpretive elements
calculated outcomes, and strive to sell our ideas
- we must aim to captivate a diversity of users
by demonstrating their positive contributions.
in order to foster a sense of stewardship
Second, by wearing the educator’s hat, we ought
and ‘meaningfulness’ for their most valued
to consider every design as an opportunity to
landscapes.
teach those who will experience it. Previously,
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in chapter one, I introduced the phrase
The final product from my accumulated case
“transparent systems”. Physically revealing
study evaluations is the following set of design
stormwater’s path and function influences
principles. The applicability of these principles
people’s comprehension of its natural process
may vary from project scale and type, however
and opportunities for re-use. Finally, the third
the general ideas are versatile.
1. Catch one’s attention - consider unique elements that may stand out from a distance or a drive-by viewing. Compel people to visit.
common, every-day items. A great example of this comes from an interpretive sign at Magnuson Park (see image on page 34).
2. Entice - design all possible entrances as introductions to the story you are about to tell within the site.
9. Heighten the senses- humans are innately and powerfully attracted to water’s visual beauty, transcendental sounds, and refreshing feeling. Of course, people will not be encouraged to taste the stormwater and, if functioning properly, smell should not exist.
3. Water wayfinding - create a language that guides one to identify and follow stormwater with designed cues, symbols, signage, etc. 4. Tell the whole story - reveal water’s actual journey, from precipitation to collection, conveyance, and re-cycling. People expect to see pretty fountains, they have yet to appreciate the aesthetics of a cistern or creative irrigation system. 5. Honor landscape evolution - a site’s history over time is fascinating. How have people adapted the land over time and how have hydrologic processes be altered? What is the future going to look like? 6. “Connect the drops” - where it is impractical to have water at the surface, infer its path while connecting it to a literal source and outlet. 7. Invite others - people are delighted by interactions with wildlife. Attract appropriate species with plant selections, habitat boxes/ houses, and by building green corridors throughout the city. 8. Use analogies - correlate ecological processes with people’s comprehension of
10. Escape- design places to provoke a sense of escape. Bring the essence of creekside trails from the nearby Mountains into the urban fabric. A successful example of this is Seattle’s REI flagship store (in South Lake Union’s neighborhood). 11. Include art - Collaborate with artists to bring beauty, inspiration, and additional interpretive elements into the site. Encourage the artists to physically use the water as a design component. Water is a malleable, sculptural, powerful medium. 12. Exhibit water - design innovative, experimental, scientific, playful, interactive exhibits where water can be displayed and monitored as a precious resource. Publicize our consumerism as well as conservation efforts. 13. Mimicking
the MountainValley-Stream - design buildings and
landscapes within the urban context to mimic infiltration patterns of a mountain-valley region. Please see diagrams on the following pages for a visual interpretation.
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REenvisioning the function of the urban environment
grid
94
=
veins
Principle 13: Mimicking the Mountain-
confined geometric forms and functions into the
Valley-Stream
possible organic forms and functions they could
The diagrams across these two pages visually
replicate. For example, the drawing to the far left
represent a concept I came up with after visiting
overlays the natural with the urban hydrologic cycles,
a few of the case studies that live in rural to
then combines them to reassign the functions of
mountainous areas. These diagrams are my
buildings, sidewalks, and streets to mimic infiltration
reinterpretation of the urban environment from its
patterns of mountains, valleys, and rivers.
blocks
=
mountains
streets = streams
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Suggested Stormwater Sites to Visit:
(GREEN = case study)
OREGON 10th @ Hoyt Apartments, Portland, OR -- Koch Landscape Architecture 10th Street Green Street, Lake Oswego, OR -- Lango & Associates A-mazing Water Garden, The Oregon Garden, Silverton, OR -- Mayer/Reed Landscape Architecture Buckman Heights, Portland, OR -- Murase Associates Flying Salmon Downspouts, New Seasons Market, Portland, OR -- Ivan McLean, Lango Hansen Glencoe Elementary School Raingarden --Kevin Perry, Environmental Services Lloyd Crossing, Portland, OR -- Mithun, GreenWorks Metro Regional Services Headquarters Greenroof, Portland, OR -- Lando & Associates Mt. Tabor Middle School raingarden, Portland, OR NE Siskiyou Green Street, Portland, OR -- Kevin Perry, Environmental Services OMSI (Oregon Museum of Science & Industry), Portland, OR -- Murase Associates Oregon Convention Center Raingarden, Portland, OR -- Mayer/Reed Landscape Architecture Oregon Sustainability Center, Portland, OR Prowform & Propform, Portland, OR --Brian Borrello & Valerie Otani RiverEast Building, Portland, OR -- GreenWorks, Linda Wysong South Waterfront Community, Portland, OR -- Mayer/Reed, Walker Macy Springfield Bus Station Raingarden, Springfield, OR -- Cameron McCarthy Gilbert & Scheibe Stephen Epler Hall, PSU, Portland, OR -- Atlas (L.A.), Interface Engineering, Mithun SW 12th Avenue, Portland, OR -- Portland BES Tanner Springs Park, Portland, OR -- Atelier Dreiseitl, GreenWorks Tryon Creek Headwaters, Portland, OR -- GreenWorks, Portland BES
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Water Pollution Control Lab, Portland, OR -- Murase Associates, Miller | Hull Architects Willamette River Water Treatment Plant, Wilsonville, OR -- Murase Associates, Miller|Hull Architects
WASHINGTON 110 Cascades, Seattle, WA -- Seattle Public Utilities Broadview Green Grid Cedar River Watershed Education Center, North Bend, WA -- Jones & Jones Growing Vine Street / Cistern Steps, Seattle, WA -- Peggy Gaynor, SvR Design, Buster Simpson High Point Natural Drainage System, Seattle, WA -- Mithun, SvR Design, Nakano & Associates Magnuson Park, Seattle, WA -- The Berger Partnership Melrose Edge Streets, Seattle, WA -- Seattle Public Utilities Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center, Bellevue, WA -- Jones & Jones Mill Creek Earthworks, Kent, WA -- Herbert Bayer Olive 8 Building Greenroof, Seattle, WA -- The Berger Partnership Pierce County Environmental Services, Chambers Creek, WA -- Miller | Hull, Bruce Dees & Associates Pinehurst Green Grid SEA (Street Edge Alternative) Street, Seattle, WA Washington Mutual Greenroof, Seattle, WA -- Phillips Farevaag Smallenberg WaterWorks Garden, Renton, WA -- Lorna Jordan
Inspiring Designers and Artists: Andy Goldsworthy
Herbert Bayer (Mill Creek)
Maya Lin
Benson Shaw (Thornton Creek)
Ivan McLean
Robert Smithson
Brian Borrello & Valerie Otani
Linda Wysong (RiverEast Building)
Stacy Levy
Buster Simpson (Growing Vine St.)
Lorna Jordan (WaterWorks)
Vladimir Sumchenko (Art of Rain) 97
{ c h a p t e r 3 } D esi g n i ng Te rr y Ave nue : a n e x p l o r a t i o n o f urban stor mwater infr astr ucture & the hum an exp er ience
“If you are thinking a year ahead, sow a seed. If you are thinking ten years ahead, plant trees. If you are thinking one hundred years ahead, educate the people.� -Chinese proverb
chapter 3
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WASHINGTON SEATTLE
Terry Avenue runs from the South shores of Lake Union, through the heart of the historic Cascade neighborhood, toward downtown Seattle. Located between the slopes of Belltown (to the West) and Capitol Hill (to the East), Terry Avenue’s topographic position offers an ideal location for collecting, conveying and revealing urban stormwater systems.
GREEN LAKE WEST POINT TREATMENT PLANT MAGNOLIA QUEEN ANNE
LK. UNION
TERRY AVENUE ELLIOT BAY
DOWNTOWN LK. WASHINGTON
WEST SEATTLE DUWAMISH RIVER
100
LAKE UNION
TERRY AVENUE
AERIAL PERSPECTIVE: View facing South
elliot bay capitol hill
belltown
I-5 terry avenue
westlake ave.
south lake union park
lake union
eastlake ave.
This is a bird’s eye view looking to the South from Lake Union, toward downtown Seattle. Terry Avenue is centrally located within the Lake Union watershed, between Capitol Hill and Belltown.
SITE TOPOGRAPHY
The orange box outlines Terry Avenue. Notice the topographic lines, depicting Terry Ave. at the lowest point. This would naturally be a wet valley between two slopes.
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Introduction to Terry Avenue, South Lake Union, Seattle, WA:
Lake Union
Site selection (for testing the aforementioned urban stormwater infrastructure design principles) was a simple decision once I discovered Seattle’s 2002 open space strategy document, titled ‘The Blue Ring: Connecting Places’. The inspiration for this long-range urban design vision stemmed from the Olmsted Brother’s plan for a network of Seattle park spaces, titled ‘The Green Ring’ in 1903. The new 100-year “Blue Ring” strategy promotes an urban design framework for the future development of a more ‘livable public realm’. Goals and objectives include the enhancement of connectivity, gathering places, sustainability, investment, and public art. This document provided an abundance of urban design analysis maps, including urban watersheds, major corridors, connector streets, future green streets, urban trails, as well as ‘gap areas’. Terry Avenue is identified along the Blue Ring, as a ‘gap area’ (sub-areas within the City Center needing urban design plans and physical improvements).1 (see map titled ‘Gap Areas’ to the right) 1 All information sourced directly from ‘The Blue Ring: Connecting Places’ document. PDF available at: www.cityofseattle.net/ dpd/cms/groups/pan/@pan/.../dpds_006516.pdf
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Terry Ave.
I-5 Seattle Center
Harrison Ave.
HWY 99
Seattle Sculpture Park Convention Center Freeway Park
I-5
Elliot Bay
I-5
I chose to narrow my design intervention to a single segment of the Blue Ring, challenging the interface between stormwater collection opportunities and the pedestrian experience. Terry Avenue is a link between Seattle’s bustling urban core and its quintessential maritime character.
This is a particularly pivotal time in South Lake Union’s history, considering the prolific development efforts by Paul Allen’s Seattle real estate development company, Vulcan Inc. More than half of the study site has been purchased by Vulcan Inc., and is in its final stages of buildout. Most interesting and simultaneously disappointing was discovering the developer’s adherence to conventional stormwater treatment (i.e. Large impervious plazas directing all stormwater toward the city’s combined sewer overflow systems). In an effort to trace and illustrate stormwater’s actual journey down Terry Avenue, I developed a photo-matrix transect. This diagram depicts current conditions, stormwater infrastructure, and (with research) the future foresight for each block (see pages 108 -109). Once I was intimately familiar with each block I created a layered design diagram, identifying areas of opportunity for green streets, greenroofs, and stormwater infiltration gardens and parks. I then chose a number of opportunity areas and developed conceptual designs to further test the lessons learned and design principles gleaned from the aforementioned 16 stormwater case studies across the Pacific Northwest.
Image source: The Blue Ring: Connecting Places, page 29
Image source: The Blue Ring: Connecting Places, page 31
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Pre-European Settlement: Nearly 14.000 years ago Lake Union was carved by the receding Vashon Glacier. The lake was known to the native Duwamish tribes as “meman harishu,” meaning “little lake”. Lake Union was once an abundant source of nutrition for local tribes. Indians fished the waters, trapped water foul, and were able to hunt this landscape for deer, elk, bear, and cougar. Vegetation included tall stands of virgin Douglas fir and cedar as well as wild rose, red currant, and squaw berries.
This image shows the undeveloped slopes of Queen Anne hill looking Northeast, toward the banks of Eastlake and the university district.
The first settlers to arrive in Seattle plotted out their properties along Elliot bay &
Date unkown
1912 1885 view of S. Lk. Union & Queen Anne Hill in the background
1850’s The first European settlers arrived on Alki Beach on November 13th, 1851
1911-1917: Lake Washington Ship Canal was built to connect Lk. Washington through the Montlake Cut and Lake Union to the Puget Sound
Queen Anne Hill
Queen Anne Hill Lake Union
Notice t
hese car
40 years
104
after the
first settle
rs arrived
in Seattle
1890: Lake Union & Seattle from the South
ved hills ..
.
During the 1920’s, much of Seattle’s underground infrastructure was built.
View from Capitol Hill, looking over Lake Union, toward Elliot Bay, before the urban skyline
Date unkown
Date unkown
1920’s 20 million gallons of water per day were sucked from Lake Union for the hydraulic mining of Denny Hill.
Queen Anne Hill Lake Union
...h
ere
Lake Union
the ya
re a
gr
= ade
e ny R n e D
rid
gai
n, d
eve lo
ped
u flat
ng rba
Denny Regrade : btw. 1928-1931
Date unknown
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Cascade Neighbors: South Lake Union attracted a middle-class neighborhood, considered an ethnic melting-pot of immigrants from Scandinavia, Greece, Russia, and the Balkans. Poorer families moored their houseboats between mills, canneries, and shipyards.
Ford’s Assembly Plant
I-5 I-5 I5 I-5 I-5 I-5
Western Mill Co.
1934
1961
1930’s Industry Flourished Seattle Gas Light Company
Westin Tower
Western Mill Co.
South Lake Union 1932 Land-use during the early 20th century: During the early 1900’s, South Lake Union’s access to the Puget Sound spawned the establishment of industrial. Western Mill Company pioneered the logging/lumber industry, setting up shop in 1880’s (on what is now South Lake Union Park). Other notable industrial neighbors included Ford’s assembly plant, Seattle Steam Laundry, and others. 106
Views South, across Lk. Union, from (what is now) Gas Works Park 1961
This is a drawing done in 1914 depicting the future of Pine St. in 2014...will transportation meet the expectations of our ancestors in the next four years?
1962
These two drawings are by Seattle artist, Gabriel Campanario - documenting the changing skyline of South Lake Union.
I-5 I-5 I5 I-5 I-5 I-5 Interstate 5 under construction Seattle’s stretch of I-5 was built during the early 60’s. Mercer Street was turned into the off/on ramp for the interstate, bisecting the Cascade neighborhoods. Today, SDOT is looking at options to alleviate traffic volumes and repair connectivity between South Lake Union and downtown Seattle.
Lake Union Capitol HIll
This is one of Vulcan’s new commercial buildings (future Amazon.com campus) encompassing a small brick building on the national historic registry (future Tom Douglas restaurant)
South Seattle
1967
21st Century The South shore of Lake Union is still home to a tradition of maritime activities, however the age-old industrial land-use is rapidly transforming into high-end mixed housing and commercial buildings (mostly owned by Vulcan Inc.) Westin Tower
1992
2009
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TERRY AVENUE transect
Present Conditions & Notes South Lake Union Park
transect starts here a
a
VALLEY STREET
Vancant Lot
b
b
MERCER STREET
c
Vulcan Inc. Properties Phase IB
Phase II
Phase III
combined sewer overflow redirects stormwater to water treatment center rather than treating locally
c
REPUBLICAN STREET d
Phase IA
d
HARRISON STREET e
Phase IV
e
THOMAS STREET
f
f Phase V
The new Terry-Thomas building is the first of its kind on this block - certified LEED Gold
JOHN STREET
DENNY WAY
h g
g j
i i
TRANSECT LEGEND
TERRY AVENUE transect
Site Transect down Terry Ave.
108
h
East - West Streets SLU Trolly Route Open Space Vulcan Inc. Property Stormwater Flow Image Keys
j
What’s happening with stormwater?
Future Foresight
DESIGN DIAGRAM
a
opportunity
http://lmnarchitects.com/work/south_lake_union_blocks_26_and_32
opportunity opportunity INFILTRATION OPPORTUNITY LEGEND Areas for open/green space
This matrix represents my process of investigating the current conditions of Terry Avenue and identifying sites that presented potential opportunity for stormwater design.
Green Streets Green Roofs Stormwater Infiltration Gardens
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After visiting the site and investigating its current conditions, I mapped locations along Terry Avenue that posed opportunities for capturing, conveying, infiltrating, and/or reusing stormwater. The diagrams to the right break down the layers from site analysis to green infrastructure strategies.
Greenroofs
Green Streets & Stormwater Parks
Open Spaces (existing and potential)
Streets, Blocks, & Footprints
Topographic Lines : USGS map
Base Map : Google Earth image 110
1
South Lake Union’s Recharge Park
2
The Mercer-Valley, Terry-Westlake Block
Amazon.com plaza space, between Mercer St. and Republican St.
Terry’s Public Plazas
3
Vuclan’s central plaza, between Republican St. and Harrison St.
Vulcan buildings surrounding historic brick building - plaza space
Rails to Runnels Pedestrian Way Two-block stretch from Denny Way to Thomas St.
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1
South Lake Union’s Recharge Park
Future MOHI
South Lake Union Park
Terry Ave.
Westlake Ave.
Valley Street
Future building site
Mercer Street
The master planning and design for South Lake Union’s new park was done by Hargreaves & Associates on a $30 million budget, set forth by the Seattle Parks Foundation, private donors, and city investors. The park is currently under construction and scheduled to be opening late summer of 2010. This open space will provide the community with 12 acres of waterfront recreation. The main features in the park will include an interactive water fountain, model boat pond, history trail, and beach access for hand launched boats. In addition, there will be new 112
pathways, parking, lighting, furnishings and shoreline stabilization plantings. (Seattle Parks & Recreation: www.seattle.gov/ parks/proparks/projects/LakeUnionPark.htm)
The block to the South of the new park (across Valley Street) is currently being used for construction staging and overflow parking. This block is slated for development, however, in this design scheme I strategically designated the entire block as a functional stormwater infiltration park. This block lies at the toe of a 60 foot elevation drop from Denny Way to Valley Street. Currently
(Left) This is a digital rendering of the plans for the new South Lake Union Park by Hargreaves & Associates. My design scheme proposes altering the tree grove in the Southwestern corner of the park to allow the wetlands to flow from Recharge Park into adjoining pools before releasing water into Lake Union.
Area of proposed change (Above) This photo is taken from the South end of SLU park, facing south, toward the vacant lot that I propose the design for Recharge Park.
100% of stormwater from the South Lake Union watershed is captured in combined sewer overflow (CSO) pipes and directed out to the West Point Treatment Plant (see map on page 100) where it is then released into the Puget Sound. Lake Union currently does not receive any natural runoff-flow from this basin. It is the goal of this project to slow, treat, and regenerate water as close as possible to the location it falls upon, There is no reason rainwater should be combined with wastewater and diverted through miles of pipe to be chemically treated.
platform for views overlooking the park and lake. The harvested water would be released by three large, bubbling fountains, slowly traveling down a gentle slope before entering a series of wetland pools. The pools would cascade from one into the next, eventually crossing (underneath) Valley Street and reappearing at the South end of SLU park, then release into Lake Union. This design mimics the natural function of this site’s historic marshy seasonal wetlands and ravines, as described by the Duwamish tribes that once survived on this landscape.
The intention of this design scheme is to slow and treat 100% of all stormwater collected from greenstreet bioswales along Westlake and Terry Avenues. Any overflow from the bioswale systems would be directed to a harvesting vault at the South end of Recharge Park, simultaneously serving as the
Additionally, Recharge Park would serve its community with a laboratory for learning about the function of stormwater and the benefits of green infrastructure at the urban scale. Over time, the ecological benefits that this single block may provide far outweigh another commercial building with parking lots.
Illustrative images depicting the new recreation and leisure activities at the new South Lake Union Park.
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Treated water is released
Pedestrian boardwalk
South Lake Union Trolly lines
Blue rail lines marking water’s path
Location for art installation
Terry Avenue ≈ 2,451,840 gal./yr. from Denny Way to Valley St.
Westlake Avenue ≈ 3,064,800 gal./yr. from Denny Way to Valley St.
Native tree species Infiltration pool
Seasonal wetland vegetation
Water seeping through river rock Concrete piers
Bubbling stormwater fountains Amphitheater-style turf steps
Viewing platform above storage vault
114
1
South Lake Union’s Recharge Park Total collection potential ≈ 5,516,640 gal./yr.
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Applied Design Principle Examples: First – I used the Water Wayfinding principle, throughout the entire design, to create a pedagogic tool or symbol, identifying water’s path from each block – which all eventually culminates in recharge park. You’ll notice, at the South end of the park, blue stripes within the paving pattern...they are also repeated at the North end, in what looks like a blue crosswalk. These are replicas of the historic rail lines that still exist on parts of Terry Ave. – they are painted blue and run the length of the design, connecting a literal tracing of water’s path. The second design principle I’d like to highlight in the design of this park is Escape. In dense, urban areas, it is always a challenge to find respite. A park this size, with the relaxing sounds of water drowning out the hustle-bustle of the city, would allow residents, employees, and visitors of the area a place to escape for a lunch break, read a book, walk a dog, or simple relax and people watch.
Stormwater overflow from Terr y & Wes tlake
Mercer Street
Pathways between Recharge Ponds 116
Stormwater harvesting tank
Water pumped to central fountains
Seep to first pool
Infiltration pond
Recharge Fountains
Pedestrian pathways meandering through wetland and riparian vegetation patches
1
Infiltration pond
Overflow piped under Valley St.
Valley Street
South Lake Union Trolly
South Lake Union’s Recharge Park
Infiltration pond
Lake Union outlet
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2
At the heart of Vulcan’s new development along Terry Avenue, is the largest of three public plazas, which opens up to the street with a vast sea of hardscape. Amazon.com will soon call these buildings their home campus. People will swarm this open space along with the retail shops opening up to it. Although these blocks are in their final stages of completion, the finished product confirms the speed at which green technology has evolved over the past decade. In 2002, when this project was in its conceptual design phases, the potential benefits of stormwater design and technologies were not frequently discussed or realized. In an effort to achieve LEED gold or silver, the majority of “green dollars” went into the buildings’
Terry’s Public Plazas
Boren Ave.
Terry Ave.
Westlake Ave.
Republican Street
Harrison Street
118
technology and materials. It seems counterproductive to evaluate and reconceive a site of such recent construction, however, minor retrofits and applications can be added over time to capture and treat stormwater onsite. The following design scheme illustrates a number of ideas for capturing, conveying, and infiltrating stormwater from the rooftops and plaza space. Currently, this single block consists of nearly 100,000 square feet of impermeable surface area. It will relieve approximately 2,304,459 gallons of precipitation each year. By implementing stormwater technologies, from greenroofs to flow-through planters, the majority of that water can be dealt with onsite while overflow could be directed toward Recharge Park. The design also focuses on revealing the process of stormwater to the occupants of the plaza. Water would flow from ground level scuppers into ground plane runnels, doubling as gravitational irrigation for the central bosque of trees. A green roof on the central, two story, building would be visible to occupants of the
surrounding buildings. By revealing connections from rooftops to building facade to the plaza, one may begin to, literally, “connect the drops”.
(Above) The historic walls from the Van Vorst building are revealed along narrow corridors between buildings. This is the South-facing wall.
(Top) Close up, angular view of the plaza’s only significant art work. I suspect this V-shape stands for Vulcan Inc. (Bottom) Typical stormwater drainage across site.
Other than the central staged steps, there is a lack of seating in this plaza - no where to relax on a lunch break. Only a few benches near the street.
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New commercial building
Roof tops ≈ 1,592,255 gal./yr. Plaza & walks ≈ 712,204 gal./yr.
≈ 676,439 gal./yr.
Blue rails, marking water’s path down Terry Avenue Stormwater flow-through planters Raised boardwalk
Restored historic landmark building: Van Vorst Building,1909
Court of the Ashes
≈ 327,608 gal./yr. Roof water enters runnels directly from building
Green street bioswales line Terry Avenue New commercial building
≈ 588,208 gal./yr.
Viewing platform above storage vault
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http://www.flickr.com/photos/21959339@N06/2777596941/
http://instruct1.cit.cornell.edu/lanar524/IslamicImages.html
2
Terry’s Public Plazas
Total potential collection ≈ 2,304,459 gal./yr.
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Applied Design Principle Examples: The main principle I applied to this portion of the design intervention was “connect the drops”– from green roof technology to downspouts emptying themselves into a grid of open runnels, then releasing into lush rain gardens flanking a slightly raised boardwalk – one cannot mistake the transparent journey water makes through this entire site.
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Current conditions
Bosque of Runnels
2
Terry’s Public Plazas
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3
At the Southern-most end of Terry Avenue lies the greatest opportunity to design an integrated approach to transparent stormwater infrastructure within a pedestrian friendly corridor. These two blocks are sandwiched by recent re-developments and urban revitalization. The blocks to the South include high end mixed-use housing and commercial buildings (i.e. Whole Foods, Starbucks, Pan Pacific Hotel, and high end condos), and to the North are mostly office and commercial spaces (i.e. the Terry-Thomas building, the Vulcan blocks, restaurants, and retail shops). Due to the rapid changes this neighborhood has seen, it is apparent that the majority of buildings along this stretch of Terry Avenue have served their purpose throughout the industrial era and, like their neighbors, may be facing either restoration for a new use or demolition for rebuilding. Now is an opportune time to re-imagine the possibilities for this public right-of-way and its connection to the future built environment.
Rails to Runnels Pedestrian Way
Boren Ave.
John Street
Terry Ave.
Westlake Ave.
Thomas Street
Denny Way
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From Thomas Street to Denny Way remnant patches of the old historic brick road and Burlington-Northern rail lines (that operated up until the 1980’s) still exist. According to a document produced in 2005, by Seattle’s Department of Transportation (SDOT), titled Terry Avenue North | Street Design Guidelines, Terry Avenue is one of the few remaining streets in Seattle that has not removed the original brick, and states the majority of the community would like to preserve these materials, maintaining a piece of its industrial past.
footage of all surrounding rooftops along these two blocks, nearly 5,369,165 gallons of stormwater could be mitigated from the city’s combined sewer overflow system per year. During the winter months, stormwater makes up to 44% of the total inflow to the Westpoint Water Treatment Plant1. If we cannot reduce that percentage, with population growth, we will overburden the treatment system and overflow will release untreated stormwater and raw sewage directly into local waterbodies.
Along with the visions set forth by SDOT’s design Presently, these two blocks are predominantly used guidelines for Terry Avenue, I would further by large trucks to load and unload goods, as well challenge the city to utilize the unique characteristics as haphazard angular parking along the backs of and opportunities these two blocks possess . The the buildings. Pedestrians tend to meander down following design scheme goes over-the-top with the middle of the right-of-way because there are creative, yet practical ideas to implement surfaceno designated sidewalks or safe pathways. Because level stormwater conveyance and infiltration that Terry Avenue is not a main arterial street, traffic is is both educational and aesthetically captivating. typically light and slow. The scheme aims to provide the community with a place that honors the historic past of this site while Stormwater on these blocks is currently an issue promising a more sustainable future. By providing (from my observations). During my transect, I found prototypes for urban green infrastructure, these only one or two main storm drains along this stretch. design ideas may become viral as the city continues The road slopes from Denny toward Thomas and to develop. People should be engaged with and has a cross-slope from the East side of the street to inspired by the public spaces their city provides. the West. I calculated the impervious surface area of the right-of-way to be approximately 58,680 square feet, which would generate almost 1,380,642 gallons Source: The Process: West Point Treatment Facility, Discovery Park of stormwater runoff per year. If we add the square 1 http://www.kingcounty.gov/environment/wtd/About/System/West/Process.aspx
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Permeable brick pavers
Potential for redevelopment Monitoring Cistern “Space Needle Nook” park
Printing business
Infiltration parking lot
Sliver stormwater park Removable bollards
Parking
Potential for redevelopment
Sculptural Douglas fir downspout & cistern
New condominiums
Alley & loading docks
“The Lab” park Rain gardens handle runnel overflow Artists scupper installation Open runnels convey roof & street water Bioswales along Westlake Ave.
Furniture warehouse and showrooms
Restored historic brick road Retrofit loading dock
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3
Rails to Runnels Pedestrian Way
Total collection potential ≈ 5,369,165 gal./yr.
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Applied Design Principle Examples: One example along the Rails to Runnels stretch, is what I called “the lab” (to the right). This scheme applied many principles, but really shows off how to “Catch One’s Attention”. Of course this principle seems obvious, but I relate it to the bait on a fishing line... a space that is designed to lure people in and check out its intricate details may compel them to question, contemplate, and internalize the intriguing elements that exist. This scheme uses vivid red, cone shaped scuppers of various sizes to catch roof water and direct it toward the ìwater wallî – where the flowing gutters shower the planted sections of the wall. These planted sections are like windows into the process of water infiltration – you see the layers of soil and roots, then silt and sand, rock, then the filtered water table belowÖwhich flows right into the runnels that join the centralized streetscape design.
View looking North to Lake Union from Rails to Runnels Pedestrian Way.
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“the lab�
sliver stormwater park
3
Rails to Runnels Pedestrian Way
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To conclude this body of work, I refer back to the authors who have triggered my inquisitions and curiosity. Meyer, Spirn, Thayer, Herrington, Tuan, Porteous, Mozingo, and Hill are a handful of theorists whose writings “flipped a switch” in my mind and challenged me to turn on my imagination. Collectively, their writings offer diverse experience, knowledge and suggestive tactics for mending the connective tissue between natural systems design and human engagement. The combination of these influential readings and my specific inquisition with the human experience of stormwater design has lead me to realize some of the opportunities available, and constraints we must overcome. To reiterate, I am not simply advocating for the implementation of green infrastructure in urban areas. I am arguing that, in order for these new strategies to be truly successful and sustainable, we must carefully consider the details. We must design places to be special and bring pride into a community. I argue that this pride will stem from beautiful, unique, and interesting places that reveal a positive environmental performance. The following are constraints, which I believe currently stand in the way of designing the intimate details and experiential qualities of stormwater infrastructure: • Intangible Values - We cannot put a number, percentage, or dollar figure on a community’s connection or personal value we develop for a place. It is extremely difficult to convince project stakeholders that your design aims to produce such intangible qualities and 130
appreciation. Since we are not able to use hard facts to prove that our designs will “generate a sense of environmental stewardship,” we must find alternative, creative ways of communicating the intention to build these values through design and sustain them over time. • “Value Engineer Out” - This is a term our field is, unfortunately, very familiar with. Design can reach final construction drawing phases before clients decide to cut back the details “because they just don’t fit the budget”. This is when we see the imagination and creativity that went into making a project spectacular, get dumped. Consequently, this results in a lack of character, uniqueness, and “just another blah plaza” is born. Budgets ultimately rule our design decision making process and, therefore, our hands are tied. This point goes back to convincing the client of the intangible values that unique details and materials can bring. • Government Regulations / Code - My project did not divulge the intricacies of working with (or around) city codes, however this is an area that deserves great attention and research. Because green infrastructure is still in its infancy and has not yet generated much statistical success, many city agencies have resisted code alterations because of liability and maintenance concerns. Stormwater projects, such as Growing Vine Street in Seattle, were only successful because of dedicated volunteers who spent over a decade convincing the city to allow their project. The following list of opportunities revolves around the optimistic view that over time, the constraints mentioned above will become
obsolete as we experience and document more and more successful precedents. •Creating New Perceptions - By setting forth an agenda to mitigate stormwater through artful, participatory landscapes, people will begin to comprehend the beneficial attributes of capturing, conveying, infiltrating and regenerating rainwater versus allowing it to rapidly disappear into a CSO system. As landscape architects, it is our opportunity to design these spaces and our responsibility to educate and influence through design elements and experiences. How we perceive something is derived through our observations and physical experiences. •Rebuilding Synergies - Over the past century, as cities developed, roads were built, and underground infrastructure was laid, rainwater has been divorced from its natural hydrologic cycle. We have the opportunity to completely restructure the logic of the built environment and reconceive of cities as organisms. Buildings and landscapes (including vegetated building surfaces and applications) can work together to become mutually beneficial and regenerative. •Sustaining a Quality of Life - My final conclusive point is that by designing places that not only provide positive ecological function, but educate and influence today’s young generations, we can help to ensure that artful green infrastructure becomes the new accepted convention for the future. Children can grow with it, adapt to it, and as time goes on, they will have developed a relationship with water’s invaluable qualities, which will influence their future responsibilities of maintaining and sustaining a high quality of human and natural life.
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