The Pacific Northwest is a region that is inundated with natural beauty. As designers, we draw inspiration from the array of sensations that are invoked by the landscapes that surround us. The splash of ocean spray, contours of cedar bark, or cries of local fauna are subtleties that can play an integral role in a water feature’s conception.

Design teams in British Columbia and Washington State share the advantage of being located within this complex ecosystem. These ties extend beyond access to natural grandeur. Developments such as the Cascadia Innovation Corridor Partnership, which aims to entrench economic connections between Vancouver, Seattle, and Portland, are indicative of the shared goals and values tying the Pacific Northwest together.

As a showcase of the mutual dependence and admiration of nature that we share with our neighbors, we aim to highlight architectural water features within Washington State. While a border may separate us, there always exists potential for collaboration and the exchange of ideas. The following list includes Vincent Helton designs intermingled with projects that have meaningfully re-shaped the spaces they occupy.

Museum of Glass

Designer: Vincent Helton. Partners: NMA, Notkin Mechanical Engineers. Art Installation by Martin Blank

Tacoma is home to one of art’s most unique showcases: an entire library of pieces dedicated to the medium of glass. The iconic building, which was itself designed by the acclaimed Canadian architect Arthur Erickson, is a hub for artists, tourists, and locals hosting public events. In keeping with glass’ properties, the outdoor plazas of the museum contain three large reflective pools. The design of the feature allows the water’s flat surface to accentuate and highlight glass sculptures that have been placed within them. Once the sun sets, the spectacle becomes enhanced by light fixtures that dance across the glass’ contours and water’s surface.

International Fountain

Originally designed for the 1962 World Fair, International Fountain is composed of a concrete bowl with a large metal dome resting in its center. This dome, which is built as a nod to the possibilities of space exploration, contains a variety of water nozzles that emanate mist, ‘micro-jets’, and large vertical pillars of water capable of reaching 120 feet high. Rebuilt in 1995, its current rendition serves as a splash park for families. This feature is memorable, iconic, and an archetypical example of a re-modeling project done perfectly.

Bellevue City Hall

Designer: Vincent Helton. Partner: PFS Studio. Art Installation by Dan Corson

Bellevue’s chief government office building is a former data center that was completely renovated in 2008. Its terra cotta exterior and energy efficient design are noteworthy accents that have been met with acclaim in the architectural world. The structure is complemented by a series of reflective pools and waterfalls. These water features perpetuate the City Hall’s civic agenda by enticing passerby with illuminated walkways, local art, and a calming ambiance.

One of the most recognizable components of the project is the large art installation, Dan Corson’s Longboat. Situated within the site’s largest reflective pool, this piece is cast from the trunk of an old growth cedar, originally harvested in the 1800s. This direct reference to the natural and anthropological history of the region is a testament to nature’s influence on designers in the Pacific Northwest.

Westlake Park Fountain

Seattle’s unofficial town square, Westlake Park, is a convivial hub of community engagement. The abundance of shops, cafes, and recurring events ensure that this area is consistently rife with activity year-round. This liveliness is complimented by a prominent waterfall installation. Created as part of a series of pieces collectively known as Westlake Star Axis / Seven Hills, the waterfall contains a walkway that allows brave pedestrians to step through its wake on hot summer days. In addition to being a visual centerpiece, the structure acts a podium for public speakers.

While inspiration can always be found in the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, there is much to be said about the works of others. Admiring our neighbor’s projects is as important a part of the creative process as observing the environment around us. Washington State is full of such projects, and we are excited to see what the future holds for both ourselves and our partners down South.

Water Features Of The Pacific Northwest: Four Inspiring Projects In Washington State