The abstract form can also be read as a tree in plan view, merging natural systems with design thinking. A surrounding orbital band hints at movement and unity—representing the interconnectedness of landscape, ecology, and people.

In another light, the logo is seen as a creative “big bang”—a burst of energy symbolizing growth, imagination, and the powerful momentum behind every landscape we shape.

Using a large aerial crane, the prefabricated structure was carefully set atop its elevated platform approximately seven feet above the field, marking a significant step forward in construction. The press box was designed collaboratively by our team and the University of Puget Sound to improve functionality, visibility, and the overall character of the facility.

Fabricated by Tuff Shed and installed on a platform constructed by Premier Field Development, the new structure provides significantly improved sight-lines across the field, better access for game-day operations, and a more cohesive architectural presence within the ballpark.

The crane installation was an exciting moment for the project team and a clear visual indicator of the transformation underway at the softball complex. With the press box now in place, work will continue on the surrounding improvements that will enhance the experience for student-athletes, staff, and fans alike.

The design activates the juniper-covered hillside and surrounding space with colorful play surfacing and a variety of imaginative features inspired by the school’s Knights mascot and the landscapes of the Pacific Northwest. Planned elements include embankment slides, swings, an extensive monkey bar course, and an outdoor classroom.

The playground will also offer spaces for quieter exploration, including a small gnome village, sensory play areas, and a “shire-like” nook carved into the hillside. Together, these elements will create a playful, nature-inspired environment that encourages adventure, creativity, and discovery. 🌲

Baumwelt helped design the project, which expands recreation opportunities at the park by converting the existing courts into flexible multi-sport facilities. The former tennis and basketball courts now accommodate additional activities, including pickleball on the tennis court and futsal on the basketball court.

To support the expanded uses, the project also included new perimeter fencing and upgraded site lighting to improve safety and allow for evening play.

At the dedication ceremony, the young resident who first advocated for the improvements—now a high school student—attended alongside friends and family, celebrating the completion of a project that grew from a community idea into a lasting neighborhood amenity. 🏀🎾

Historically, the infield was prone to standing water following rain events, often requiring extensive maintenance by university staff and players to restore playable conditions. The new design introduces an innovative drainage approach that integrates a shock pad beneath the synthetic turf surface. This system directs stormwater efficiently to a collector trench while providing a consistent and stable playing surface.

In addition to improved drainage and all-season playability, the shock pad adds an important safety benefit. The pad manufacturer guarantees that the surface hardness will remain below a specified threshold for the first 25 years of installation, helping ensure a safer field for athletes.

The accompanying photos show key stages of construction, including the base rock preparation, installation of the shock/drainage pad system, and the turf installation currently underway.

The project will replace an existing low, non-accessible viewing structure with a taller, elevated platform designed to meet ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) accessibility standards. The new structure will include an accessible ramp, overhead covering, and a viewfinder to help visitors observe wetland conditions and wildlife. Elevated above the surrounding habitat, the platform will provide improved vantage points for casual birders, visitors, and school groups interested in learning about wetland ecology and habitat restoration.

In addition to the platform, Baumwelt will lead the redesign of the site’s parking area to improve the overall visitor experience. Planned improvements include clearer circulation, enhanced sight lines for safety, security camera integration, and a dedicated school bus drop-off area to support educational visits.

Together, these improvements will help transform the site into a welcoming public destination for experiencing the Port’s ongoing habitat restoration work.

Loaded up and ready for installation, the truck carries an exciting cast of characters and landmarks: two orcas, snow-capped mountains, a lighthouse, a ferry, a steam donkey, seals, salmon, and yes—even Bigfoot.

Stay tuned for more behind-the-scenes updates as this one-of-a-kind course comes to life!

Recently, crews from Terra Dynamics began installing willow live stakes in the lowland areas of the site. These cuttings from native willow species will quickly root and establish vegetation that helps stabilize soils and support long-term habitat health.

Baumwelt is providing construction oversight during planting, ensuring the restoration design is implemented correctly. This includes confirming the willows are placed in the proper locations, handled appropriately to maintain viability, and installed to the correct depth with proper soil backfill.

Once established, the willows and other native plantings will help create a resilient wetland landscape that supports wildlife habitat and improves the ecological function of the Wapato Creek corridor. 🌿

The villa is being reimagined with strong Italian influences, and the landscape plan reflects that character. Early in the design process, we envisioned a mature olive tree positioned on axis with the arrival sequence to the home, creating a dramatic focal point that reinforces the Mediterranean aesthetic.

To bring this vision to life, our team first conducted research to confirm that olive trees could successfully grow in the Pacific Northwest climate. Once viability was confirmed, we sourced a mature specimen from a historic olive farm in California. Many of the trees at the farm are over 100 years old and, while no longer agriculturally productive, remain remarkable landscape specimens.

The client personally visited the nursery to hand-select their tree, which was carefully removed, transported to Washington, and installed on site. The photos show the client operating equipment during the installation—a fitting hands-on moment in bringing this distinctive landscape feature to life.

Today, the olive tree is thriving in its new Pacific Northwest home. 🌿