Inspired by and named after Washington’s Cascade Mountain range, Cascara embraces connections to nature and the Pacific Northwest’s culture of outdoor recreation. Made up of two buildings and connected by an underground parking garage, Cascara is bisected by a pedestrian walkway, connecting the buildings to the neighborhood around it. Designed with switchbacks, like a hiking trail, the path reduces steepness and ensures accessibility for everyone. At the base of the structure, dark brick conjures up the rocky walls of an alpine mountain, while materials like metal panels and fiber cement at the top create impressions of a snow-covered peak. Pockets of green from residential balconies recall evergreen trees, poking up from the side of a mountain. A distinctly modern nature-inspired entry patio is established on the first floor through timber accents, complete with a welcoming fireplace visible from the sidewalk and LED light strips that mark the main entry in a striking way. In the middle of the west building, a courtyard includes hammocks for residents to enjoy, while outdoor stoops and patios at-grade help activate and enliven the street presence on the public side of the tower. On top of each building, rooftop decks provide panoramic views of Seattle’s waterfront, Mount Rainier, and the Olympic Mountains. The buildings themselves are stepped back to preserve a big, beautiful tree that was present on the west side of the site. Furthering the theme of conservation, Cascara utilizes environmentally friendly finishes and materials, achieving Salmon Safe Certification and is targeting LEED Platinum Certification. As part of the Yesler Terrace development, Cascara provides a convenient, comfortable, and connected living option for Seattleites – especially people who work in the nearby medical facilities on First Hill.