Artist Residence
West Seattle
Distinctive. Whimsical. Delightful.

The challenge: She wanted a garden shed. He wanted a miniature train that would circle the yard and tunnel under the shed. Both wanted a koi pond. Neither wanted a lawn. And both dreamed of an attractive view from the house, which looked over the small, sloped lot (approximately 16’ x 40’).

The Johnson Associates solution: We began by creating a timber retaining wall to level the lot and increase functional square footage, and then added screening to provide

privacy from the neighbors. To create a pleasant view from the house, we carefully planned the arrangement of the garden shed and a riverbed with a waterfall that splashes into the koi pond.

The water feature required meticulous placement and a specific filtering system to ensure the safety of its citizens. The pond had to be deep enough to prevent enthusiastic fish from jumping out and secure enough to deflect predatory raccoons and blue herons.

As a final touch, we carefully placed low-maintenance plant materials that left enough room for the miniature train track to weave through the garden and over the riverbed. A custom-made weather vane topped the garden shed.

These Outdoor Rooms provide a perfect reflection of the residents’ hobbies.