November 21 was a frosty morning, when work crews from Shirey Handyman Service began the two-day construction project of the last piece of the Seattle Community Farm’s infrastructure. VIA Architecture’s Community Design Studio assisted Solid Ground in the design and permitting of the new shelter that fulfills the original plan for the Seattle Community Farm. Two years in the making, the completion of the overhead structures “will greatly enhance the work at the Farm,” says Scott Behmer, Seattle Community Farm Coordinator.
Now into the third growing season, the Seattle Community Farm, a project of Solid Ground’s Lettuce Link program, has had to cope with the ever-changing Pacific Northwest weather. Sunny summer days would wilt vegetables being washed, while the seemingly endless rain would put a damper on outdoor activities being held without a shelter. With the comfort the new overhead structures provide, Lettuce link expects to expand classes at the Farm – such as hosting additional Cooking Matters cooking and nutrition courses – and other events and activities that engage the Rainier Vista neighborhood. To Farmer Scott, “The purpose of the final infrastructure piece – to bring people together and act as a community gathering place – has finally been realized.”
- A before shot of the Seattle Community Farm work tables and toolshed. The pink markers on the ground indicate the locations of the support posts for the canopy.
- An opposite view of one farm work table before construction, with the garden in the background.
- Construction crews get ready to dig the holes for the shelter support posts.
- At the end of day one, the support posts have been placed and are stabilized so the concrete can dry overnight.
- Day two begins with the construction of the canopies.
- The construction crew secures the canopy boards in place.
- The surface lumber is positioned and attached, completing the canopy base structure.
- This canopy, placed directly over the sinks, will provide shelter for washing the harvested vegetables.
- With the sheet metal surface applied to the canopy, construction is finished.
- While the brick red canopy blends in with the environment, it also adds a touch of warmth and fun.
- The whimsical background mosaic was created by Youth Arts students from Coyote Central.
- This canopy will provide ample shade or shelter for kids’ programs.
Leave a Comment