Bridging a Connection with Nature

Written by Chris Hellstern, Living Building Challenge Services Director at Miller Hull Partnership

As we approach this year’s Thanksgiving celebration we cannot help but look forward to 2019’s holiday with a dream of how the Loom House owners will be able to welcome their family around their new table. The idea of welcoming was one of the first items addressed in the Loom design when the project began. Before the renovation, there was no clear path to enter the home and no delineation of the difference between the north and south houses. Previously, a visitor would be thrust onto the private deck and immediately met with the living room window. A welcoming bridge was the solution to create both privacy and wayfinding.

The wood-clad steel bridge to Loom House is light on the land, as it spans over the well-cared, original landscape and protects existing roots. It affords visitors with an opportunity to slow their entry procession to the home and consider the natural beauty of the site. As one pauses on the bridge you may notice the pond below or smell the salty breeze from Puget Sound as you look towards the city of Seattle in the distance. The bridge sets the tone of Loom House—a connection with nature.

Careful consideration was given to the path to reach the bridge, providing visitors a meandering trail that passes by the mushroom nurse log and threads between the mature and stately gateway tress that are more than 100 years old. Crossing the bridge as you near the house on a rainy day, you will notice the faint sound of water cascading through the downspout—an homage to the net positive water story of this property and the commitment to conservation by its owners. At night, a subtle path of LED lights guides your way and highlight the dramatic topography and landscaping below.

This Thanksgiving, we reflect on the dedication and expertise of the entire team working on this unique home. Right now, everyone is hard at work on the bridge so that the Loom House owners can welcome home their guests next fall.

Written by Chris Hellstern, Living Building Challenge Services Director at Miller Hull Partnership