Recovery Reimagined: Regenerative Intervention in the Upper Stillaguamish River Valley

Abstract

The landslide that occurred in March 2014 in the Upper Stillaguamish River Valley caused a great loss of life and property and prompted a rebuilding of the valley’s infrastructure. This thesis seeks to enhance that recovery through regenerative architecture interventions which integrate human reclamation efforts with respect for the natural wild. Instead of being known as a place of disaster, the valley, centered on the river and the White Horse Trail, will be known for its natural beauty. Architecture interventions along the existing trail seek to boost the collective spirit of the valley by providing sites that the community can be proud of as well as drawing attention to the forces of nature. Two trailhead facilities and a viewing tower, along with trail markers, are proposed in designs that are sensitive to the surrounding natural flows of wildlife and geology. Through these built interventions, an experience of the place is curated and views of nature which may otherwise be missed are framed and highlighted. This redefinition of the natural experience cultivates pride in one’s community and an atmosphere of healing and enhanced recovery that is deeply rooted in and responsive to the place.