bothell

Our clients on this project-in-progress needed help with some strategic stream restoration interventions. Their house is situated over a vernal stream that runs through their backyard and under their living room. The views of the yard and surrounding forest are amazing but the site needed some care to mitigate erosion, sedimentation and standing water near high-use areas. 

This plan focuses on a some minor earthwork to help reshape and spread out the shallow channel, placing silt fencing upstream, planting natives in high-impact locations to help stabilize the stream bank and positioning some hunky igneous boulders for visual impact. We also included a raised crossing of flat basalt boulders to access the sauna and play area that will keep feet dry even when the creek is flowing.

Aside from improving the function of the creek itself, we explored the nuanced experience of walking through and around the creek in different locations where water, boulders and plantings create intimate moments to explore, jump around, have a rest or enjoy the view.