International SEED Award – Place of Hidden Waters

International SEED Award – Place of Hidden Waters

November 23, 2012

From the Jury: “The jury was struck by the elegant combination of the principles of sustainability with cultural relevance, while providing a contemporary aesthetic.”

“The Puyallup Longhouse was designed with the goal of creating a community center and beautiful, relevant and affordable housing for members of the Puyallup Tribe struggling with the challenges of increased urbanization, high unemployment and low income.  The design embraces the tribe’s culture and follows the concept of traditional longhouses where family, friends & community members interacted to perform such daily activities as singing, dancing, weaving and carving.  Modern technologies supplemented the natural design strategy and led to homes that are much more energy efficient than current Washington State energy code.”