The Notch
Sammamish, WA
The City of Sammamish selected MxM to complete site investigation, concept design, cost estimating, project implementation sequencing, and permitting and environmental review for the city-owned property known as the “Notch,” an undeveloped parcel within the Sammamish Commons: the City’s Civic Center and adjacent to Lower Sammamish Commons Park. The City’s goals for the Notch included completing a strong pedestrian connection from new development to the north and east and west edges of the site to the Civic Center.
“MxM's team of talented and thoughtful designers brought great care, approachability, humor, and design insight to every conversation.”—Michelle Arab, City of Sammamish Parks, Recreation, and Facilities
MxM developed and presented three conceptual design schemes to gather public feedback. After online surveys and tabling efforts throughout the summer, we found a clear favorite, with the public calling for a sustainable and ecological park with places to gather and connect. The topography of the site slopes steadily toward the south, and the design allowed an accessible route meandering throughout large topographic and sculptural mounding to carve out spaces of various scales and flexible programming opportunities. At a compression point between these mounds, a signature water wall creates interest and atmosphere, allowing for an opening to a large gathering space, which enhances and unfolds a generous connection to the Lower Sammamish Commons Park.