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Yesler Terrace Block 7 - Sawara

Year: 2023

Category: Landscape & Urbanism

Skills: AutoCAD, Adobe suite, BIM, Revit, Sketchup, Lumion

Role: Project Manager Client: Seattle Housing Authority, Ankrom Moisan Architect The Sawara project is centered around the concept of a "tree village fish" - inspired by the Sawara tree, a tree known for its special scent and warmth, the Sawara village in Japan, and the Sawara fish. The architects are aiming to create a village-like atmosphere, characterized by hand-built details and a warm, human scale. Our landscape design reflects these themes by prioritizing the flow and organization of the site, as well as incorporating botanical elements such as iris fields.

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Our design for the Yesler entry features an entry garden, while the 8th Ave forecourt serves as a shared space between the community room and the courtyard for residents. The pocket park at the north end highlights the interaction between the park, existing trees, and the desire for terraces for some units. On the PAD, we are addressing the significant grade change by activating the edges with outdoor space for the units and locating the garage and trash access point close to Yesler. Our goal is to synthesize these ideas into a cohesive plan that incorporates the flowing and organizational elements of the Sawara village, the botanical elements such as iris fields, and the practical considerations of the site.

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The site is divided into several key areas: the Yesler Way lobby entry, mailroom, and social services at the building corner; the library space on the second floor overlooking Yesler; the entry courtyard on Yesler Ave; and the entry to the courtyard and community room located east of 8th Ave. The north end of the site offers a visual connection to the courtyard, park, and units, while the units interface with the private access drive (PAD) and landscape.

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8th Ave Entry Courtyard and Portal with access control for the residents

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Yesler Way Entry courtyard with porch swing

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Lily (Li-Yu) Pan