Berger Partnership: The vision for Totem Lake Park establishes a cooperative interaction between existing wetland habitat and recreational uses in this unique ecology and diverse habitat of an 18-acre depressional wetland complex. The lake itself becomes a centerpiece for a re-envisioned neighborhood that has residential units overlooking the site. A stroll on the new loop pathway and boardwalks provides sensory opportunities to see public artwork developed in collaboration with the artist, habitat layers rich in wildlife and plant species from tree canopy to emergent vegetation at the wetland floor, and broad vistas of the entire neighborhood.
A new play area incorporates structured and unstructured play activities that invites children and adults to discover their own ways to interact with the equipment. This fosters physical engagement as well as social interactions. The play area is designed to be 100% accessible and inclusive.
Development of Totem Lake Park started with a master plan process coupled with a larger planning effort that looked to revitalize one of Kirkland’s densest neighborhoods. Neglected for decades, the Totem Lake Mall defaulted into legal disputes, and redevelopment of the site was at a stalemate. Working with the Totem Lake Business District, Kirkland Planners, and the Parks Department, we studied parcels around Totem Lake (owned by the King Conservation District and maintained by Kirkland Parks) that would be viable to support a future neighborhood park. The project was seen as a catalyst that, along with redevelopment of the Cross Kirkland Corridor as a regional bike trail, the new park facility could provide recreational opportunities in an area that had limited access to open space.
The result of a decade-long project was the successful purchase of a 2.5-acre parcel that has been redeveloped into an upland neighborhood park complete with support facilities, playground, and seating areas. The project included a 900-foot-long boardwalk that connects to the regional bike trail, and we fully coordinated with the redevelopment of the mall site into a rich lifestyle center that includes retail, residential units, and a hotel.
Landscape architecture: Berger Partnership
Year completed: 2022
Photo credits: Built Work Photography and The Berger Partnership.
Manufacturer of urban or play equipment: Northwest Playground Equipment
