Shoreline Alley

Shoreline Alley interprets Seattle’s native landscape in order to reconnect Seattlelites to their waterfront. We teamed up with landscape architects MIG, Valerie Segrest of Tahoma Peak Solutions, and artist Paige Pettibon to create a scheme of integrated storytelling in the renovated urban landscape.

Custom paving patterns depict the shoreline that once meandered throughout the now neighborhood. Etched kickrails run down the streets nearby, each of which celebrates indigenous plant technologies and tools. Interpretive panels tie all of the storytelling together by describing the original landscape—a swampy, tidal lagoon—and illustrating various traditions and techniques for hunting, fishing, and harvesting.

For example, the long branches of vine maple trees are perfect for clam basket weaving along with cattail cord. Oceanspray branches heated over fire become strong as iron combine with nettle cord to make flounder spears. Soaked and dried cedar bark makes ideal cordage for duck hunting nets.