Tacoma, Washington

First Creek Park

from the foothills of Mount Tacoma

Informed by native Duwamish traditions of gathering near the rivers and creeks of the foothills of Mount Tacoma, and engaging the youth of Eastside Tacoma, Studio Zewde designed a catalytic gathering place at the civic confluence of the Eastside Community Center, First Creek Middle School, and a new regional hiking trail. Working with the Trust for Public Land and Metro Parks Tacoma, and in partnership with the North Face Foundation, the half-acre site is designed to serve a cross-section of the community in lounging, climbing, active play, and reflection. The design features a custom climbing feature, a central gathering space, native vegetation, and a mix of deciduous and evergreen trees to frame the new space. Construction was completed in 2021.