DIGITAL DIARY

Touring Seattle Public Parks

__

Megan Herzog

Fremont Peak Park

4357 Palatine Ave N, Seattle, WA 98103

13 October 2013
L ARCH 300: Introduction to Landscape Architecture
Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

The entrance to the labyrinth faces east to catch the first sunlight of the day. There Ariadne awaits, holding a spool of silver thread.
After his journey through the labyrinth to face the Minotaur, Theseus, holding the end of the thread, retraces his path back to her. In the
early light of both sun and moon, Theseus and Ariadne embrace.

Fremont Peak Park

Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

Upon entrance at the Fremont Peak Park, I was greeted by this lovely prose, inscribed within a metal band, or,
silver thread that continues throughout the park. This detail is among my favorite aspects of the park and is
useful for a variety of reasons. Located on the sidewalk of Palatine Avenue, the large silver spool becomes a
landmark for the public, drawing attention to the entrance of the park. The meandering silver thread serves
as a guide for passersby who may be lured into the park by the whimsical story, rooted in mythology. This
detail also works to set the tone of ones experience within the park, noting that the time spent within the
park walls are meant to reflect on ones journey and create a sense of togetherness.

Fremont Peak Park

Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

This view within the park gives look at a number of enchanting qualities. Facing the street side of the
Fremont Peak Park, this wandering pathway is made of dirt and small-stone gravel, and lined with bark, trees,
and a variety of shrubbery. I am attracted to this aspect of the park, for it provides an enclosed space, with
tree coverage and a sloping hill to the left, yet also becomes an opportunity for self-reflection and relaxation.
In my time at the park, I found many local community members using the park to sit in solitude on one
of their many concrete or wooden seating areas, or to walk their dogs. The dog-walkers tended to simply
take a loop around the parks clearly designated path, and then continue down the street. Gravel is a good
choice, as it deters dogs from doing their business on the pathway, and also lets park-goers know when
another person is approaching. The variety of materials along the pathway is pleasing as it contrasts with the
regularly-seen monotony of city streets.

Fremont Peak Park

Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

Here, we see a continuation of the silver thread so mentioned at the entrance to the park. First inlaid in the
ground, this metal band creates a border along the main pathways of the park. As the band twists and turns,
its perfectly smooth manmade quality acts as a barrier between the gravel pathway, meant for walking, and
the bark-covered natural area, meant for visual appreciation. The natural area is filled with a variety of trees,
such as the Western Hemlock, large stones, and plants such as sword ferns, salal, and snowberry bushes.
This detail stands out to me as it creates a sense of unity throughout the park and helps guide community
members to their final destination.

Fremont Peak Park

Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

Where the two ends of silver thread meet, at the so-called destination within the park, we find a variety
of man-made additions to the natural surroundings. As towering trees create a backdrop when looking at
the street, three differing paths are joined in a central location, marked by a silver star. The star shape in the
center of this concrete platform, along with the man-made orbs are reminiscent of constellations, much like
mythology as referenced in the entrance quotation. These orbs provide a fun and safe space for children to
play, as they are no higher than two feet off of the ground. They can also be used for sitting or standing on, and
for groups to come together in an open environment. This area brings out the unity and variety of the park, as
the concrete orbs are contrasted with very directional, cubic blocks that cut through the space. These blocks
can also be used for sitting or walking on and reinforce the idea of a journey that evolves through the park.

Fremont Peak Park

Digital Diary: Park 1
Megan Herzog

The final destination, the end-point, the peak of Fremont Peak Park is found here. This directional concrete
wall stands as a barrier between two halves of the park, cutting a vertical slice through the grassy plain. This
detail is one of my least favorite aspects of the park. I felt let down, in a way, as my entire journey and the
beautiful calming paths led to this. Although the view of Fremont, with a city-scape, houses, waterway and
hills is absolutely breathtaking, I was left wishing for a place to sit and relax in awe of the space. With almost
no seating areas, this open space is dedicated to movement rather than stasis. The one aspect I did appreciate
about this end of the park was the small stone wall and thorn-ridden bushes that stood between the open
space and a steep cliff. The cliff drops down to houses below, and I believe that this was a major safety issue
when planning the sequence of public access to the park. By lining this edge with stones and the facade of
nature, the barrier becomes unobtrusive to the public eye.

Gas Works Park

2101 N Northlake Way, Seattle, WA 98103

03 November 2013
L ARCH 300: Introduction to Landscape Architecture
Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

Gas Works Park

Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

On a cold and drizzling, overcast, Seattle day, I ventured to Gas Works Park. For a bit of backstory, I recently
have had the pleasure of meeting Richard Haag, the landscape architect of Gas Works Park, during his visit as
a guest lecturer in LA341: Site Design + Planning. Although I have been to the park before, Haags words have
helped me to view it through a new and historical lens. This chilled, fall day quickly became one of wonder
and excitement. For example, through Haags vision, the tall and rusted, decaying structures soon became a
family, with a mother, father and children, all based on height. To me, the variety of elements found on-site
at Gas Works, and the fact that this marvelous park has something to offer for everyone is its greatest value.
Even on the most dismal of days, the brightly painted machinery in the play barn and the harsh contrast
of lively green grass amongst the re-purposed rust and concrete structures are elements grand enough to
demand the attention of not only Seattle, but of the nation and the world.

Gas Works Park

Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

Inside the Play Barn, my imagination began to soar as I attempted to fathom the hundreds of thousands of
children who have found joy, adventure and mystery in this place. With 44 years of wear-and-tear under its
belt, this barn is one of the most inhabited areas of the park, especially due to its massive covered spaces
that are ideal for large-scale gatherings amidst the Seattle rain. The detail featured in the image above, a
geometric sunburst painted on plywood and stuck between the rafters of the barn attracted me for a number
of reasons. This iconic pattern is reminiscent of the 1970s, which contributes to the visual age of the building
and its possible need for a face-lift. I learned from Richard Haag that these board were placed among the
rafters, throughout the building, lengthwise, in order to deter hooligans from running on the wooden beams
and risking severe injury. This detail shows how the park has adapted and dealt with flaws in the safety of
the building throughout time.

Gas Works Park

Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

These three, large and obtrusive, rusted cylinders are the first of the Gas Works structures that I interacted
with upon my entrance to the park. Located in a close vicinity to the parks eastern entrance and just off of
the paved path, I felt an attraction toward the objects and an urge to move and look around them. When the
park becomes crowded in the summer months, these cylinders demand the space and force visitors into the
Gas Works experience, making them feel small, yet alive. Richard Haag noted that these three cylinders were
up for particular debate in the removal process, as locals wanted to get rid of as many structures as possible.
Haag fought for the cylinders to stay in hopes that someday they could be cleaned and opened on the pathfacing side as a sort of visitor center of Gas Works Park with maps, posters of the parks history and a posting
area for upcoming events. Though we have yet to see any advancements in this endeavor, I hope that someday
the park will have enough funds to revamp the use of its recycled structures.

Gas Works Park

Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

Located on the top of the earth mound, at the pinnacle of Gas Works Park, is an incredible sun dial. This artistic
detail is fully functioning when the sun manages to break through the clouds. On most days, however, its
purpose is as an artistic and interactive piece. Inlaid in the ground, the sand-like substance mimics the beach
at low-tide. The rocks and gems that are embedded in the piece become shiny, lucid and glowing under only
a few inches of rainwater and the reflection of the sky. This feature is underrated because park management
is unable to keep up with the weathering of the piece throughout the year, allowing dirt and muck to build
up within the piece. This muddies both the piece and the visitors experience. My favorite element at this site
is shown above, where the pride of park-goers is shown in the smallest of gestures. I find these flowers both
beautiful and poetic, located at the base of the piece, in a hole meant for the sun dial.

Gas Works Park

Digital Diary: Park 2
Megan Herzog

On my way out of the park, I stopped mid-walk to marvel at yet another, carefully chosen detail of the park,
presumably decided upon by Richard Haag. As the band of native red cedars create a barrier between the
residential northern entrances to the park, they are interrupted by two vibrant deciduous trees. These
trees stand out amongst the pack as they create a frame of yellow around the pathway. This detail draws
importance to the moments of entrance and exit which makes the time that visitors spend in the park truly
special. Haag has created a series of experiential phases throughout Gas Works that draw on contrasting
elements to emphasize the parks boldness. Gas Works Park enhances the pride I have to live in Seattle and is
truly unlike any other in the world.

Colman Park

1800 Lake Washington Blvd S, Seattle, WA 98144

26 November 2013
L ARCH 300: Introduction to Landscape Architecture
Digital Diary: Park 3
Megan Herzog

Colman Park

Digital Diary: Park 3

Megan Herzog

On a blustery November day, I found myself far from home. After multiple bus rides, street-crossings, and
up hill climbs, I finally made my way to Colman Park. My previous knowledge of this park was only that it is
old. The Google Maps application on my phone, however, indicated that it consisted of a lengthy trail, that
appeared to have a significant amount of grade change. This street-side entrance to the park, featured in the
image above, proves its bold presence in this neighborhood community, though it remains tucked quietly
away as the street rounds a corner. This downward view of the path took me by surprise and was a bit
daunting, as I had traveled so far already, or so I thought. When I arrived at the park, my watch read 2:20 PM,
which I thought to be ample time to explore the trails ahead. Onward!

Colman Park

Digital Diary: Park 3

Megan Herzog

As I meandered slowly through the carefully lain path, I took my time to examine the nature and wildlife
around me. Due to the weather, park visitors were incredibly sparse, consisting of only a few joggers, and
one dog-walker. This setting is one of my favorite kinds of solitude. I was in a state of complete peace while
taking photographs of the incredible details that Mother Nature hides in dark, damp places. One of my first
and favorite finds was a small cluster of mushrooms, perched right at my eye-level in a nearby tree. I love how
their texture and shape stand out in such contrast to the green moss that began to coat the ground and climb
their tree. The jolly state of these mushrooms gave me the idea that the park may lack visitors or be looked
over by nature-enthusiasts, who would share my enjoyment of this particular find. Due to its residential
setting, the parks primary use seemed to be for exercise.

Colman Park

Digital Diary: Park 3

Megan Herzog

While continuing on my way down the trail, I kept a looking for a place to rest and observe my surroundings.
This bench, the first within the park, did not look entirely inviting or comfortable. Its concrete base and dirty,
moss-covered surface may once have been a graceful addition to this sloping hillside. However, the thicket of
grasses and weeds that approached the bench and its distance from the main pathway, being around two feet,
convinced me to travel on and find my stopping-point somewhere further along the trail. On this overcast
and damp day, the old park had a musty feeling. This particular bench sparked my imagination as I began
creating scenarios of the past in my mind, and how nice of a setting this may be for a picnic in the spring and
summertime. The setting would also be ideal for outdoor movies and childhood games like tag and capturethe-flag.

Colman Park

Digital Diary: Park 3

Megan Herzog

With no end in sight and my hands beginning to numb from fingertip downward, I came upon my first small
tunnel. The language of this tunnel mirrored that of the small concrete step, featured on the previous page.
I love the antique-looking entrance to this tunnel and graceful, curving steps that guide the visitor gently
down the grade. Although this detail of the park is located directly adjacent to the street, it seemed incredibly
peaceful as I journeyed downward on my own. The benches that line the tunnel, as well as the tunnel itself
appeared to be an ideal home for the homeless, equip with seating, protection from the elements, and privacy
from the street. However, I was glad to find zero homeless people at this site. At this time, my watch read 3:00
PM and I knew that sunset would be headed my way. Looking into the distance, I saw only more trees and a
tunnel ahead, though hoped for safetys sake that the trail would not wander much further.

Colman Park

Digital Diary: Park 3

Megan Herzog

Alas. Through muddy grounds, dark tunnels and a run-in with a particularly frightening leash-less dog,
I reached the destination that lies beyond Colman Park. With my paranoia through the roof, and my feet
chasing the sun, I was rewarded in my travels with comfortable benches, a plethora of friendly park visitors,
and an astounding view of Mt. Rainier atop Lake Washington. The pastel sky warmed my heart and the open
sky allowed me to breathe. Although I enjoyed the small details, history, and endearing qualities that the park
offered me along the way, this view was by far my favorite moment. I would love to return to the park in the
summertime and with friends or family to share this journey with them, as well as the surprise ending. Now
if only I didnt have to walk all the way back up... I thought.

South Lake Union Park

860 Terry Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109

03 December 2013
L ARCH 300: Introduction to Landscape Architecture
Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

South Lake Union Park

Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

I was lucky to venture South on such a bright and sunny day, in the midst of a coming December. Though the
sun shone bright, its warmth did not and my lack of clothing layers was made quickly apparent. The park is
conveniently located just across the street from a bus stop that runs through the University District, making
for a pleasant travel time. Located next to MOHAI, with a view of nearby downtown Seattle, this park is an
emerald gem of the city, resting calmly at the south end of Lake Union. As I approached the park, it appeared
empty and under construction. With loads of traffic and busy cars rushing passed me, I felt vulnerable and
slightly confused as to where the park was. The sign above that reads LAKE UNION PARK was a corkboard
of sorts, yet devoid of any kind of posting. While the intention is good, using signage in a public space to
communicate happenings within a community, this example shown a neighborhood that has not yet fully
developed.

South Lake Union Park

Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

As I continued along freshly paved, clean and elegant sidewalks, I came across the first elements that ring
true to my understandings of public parks. With the lake coming in at a slight inlet, a variety of trees and
shrubs began to line the space, acting as mediators from the man-made sidewalks to the free-flowing water
below. I found it interesting that such plants and bushes were largely inaccessible to park visitors, separated
from the pathway with a large fence and railing that was more uninviting than helpful. I assume that this
addition has been made to deter visitors from trampling the plants, we well as for their safety. It seems
strange, however, to go through all of the work to provide a place in the city that people can engage with
nature and immediately fence them off from it. The fence seemed to say, You can look, but you cant touch.

South Lake Union Park

Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

Finally! As I wandered along the directional pathways, exploring the reaches of the park, I found a sloping
staircase and sand. This sand led directly toward (you guessed it), the water! I think that it is so important for
people to feel and interact with nature and the natural movement of the waves as they crush along the shore.
With sand in my shoes and water on my fingertips, I smiled out at the park, happy to know that this human
need of mine had been fulfilled. I think that those people who work in the high, sky-scraping buildings of
Seattle find some benefit by admiring this scene from above, yet it is pertinent that they venture out of their
offices to get their hands dirty.

South Lake Union Park

Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

My favorite part of this park was the pedestrian bridge that connects both halves of the park, across the small
inlet of Lake Union. This bridge is aesthetically pleasing and beautifully crafted, with a clean support system
to your side and sturdy grate beneath your feet. The best detail, I believe, is the addition of a timeline that
runs along both sides of the supports as you cross the bridge. Ranging from 1850 - 2010, this bridge tells
a story of the Seattle, the history of the site, and encourages visitors to make a lasting connection with the
space. Whether visitors are quickly running through the site on a solo-journey, or taking a leisurely stroll
with a loved one, the small captions and intriguing images that live on the timeline are truly memorable.

South Lake Union Park

Digital Diary: Park 4
Megan Herzog

With constant variation throughout the site, this section of the park rings true to my love for design. As the
pathway turns ever-so-slightly, raised platforms project form the ground on both sides of the path to form a
sort of cut within your journey. As concrete slabs provide a stable and clean-looking boundary for the plants
within, the rusty, metal surface that lines the inside of the garden provides a sense of variation and age to the
site. The rust appears natural and warm, yet feels man-made and cold to the touch. By mixing all elements of
the living foliage within, heavy concrete, and a light metal surface, the visitor feels as though they are a part
of the garden, completing its circle of life while they are inside the space. It is the small details of a site, such
as this, that I am finding more appealing as I explore a variety of parks. Where before these elements meant
nothing more than a place to sit, I now see the thought that went into them and try to place myself in the
designers shoes as to why such a detail may hold meaning.