Northlake Commons

Human beings have a deep connection to the forest, which is why mass timber architecture is having a modern renaissance. Timber can be carved and combined to create form and shelter that fosters a biophilic connection to the ecosystems from which it was harvested.

Northlake Commons evolved from an idea about using mass timber to create a space between the junction of two buildings, inspired by mortise and tenon joinery. This model exhibit explores the process from concept sketches to the detailing of the timber and steel elements. A 1/4 scale exploded model of the timber structure will show how early concept sketches informed the architectural details that will define one of Seattle’s largest mass timber buildings.