Symbiosis in city : how can vertical farming be integrated in a high rise mixed use development?

Abstract

This research project takes into account existing state of knowledge, to create a high rise mix use building with a vertical farming facility. As a result, the proposed building combines wide range of uses, functions and procedures to create a functional artificial ecosystem. In the process, a harmonic symbiotic relationship is established between humans, plants and all other components involved. With population rapidly rising, arable land diminishing and cities sprawling ever bigger, the way we grow food is going to require a revolution. It is important that new approaches are tried and tested and any shortcomings are dealt with earlier on. In the case of Auckland, as the city intensifies, with it dependency on infrastructure and carbon-intensive resources is on the rise. While there are wide range of intensification plans in place of the city, there is minimal to no discussion about the future of food supply systems. On the contrary, farming is being pushed out as the city sprawls.

Vertical farming is one of the promising solutions – we should start experimenting with it. Vertical farming has a wide range of benefits that can provide a sustainable alternative to traditional farming. The design solution needs to become a model that not only provides food security but also raises awareness about an issue that requires broader attention. Architecturally this project addresses implications of putting a vertical farming in the heart of the city. Urban design requirements, full exposure to allow maximum sunlight into the building and creating a public friendly entity that becomes pride of the city. Equally important is to address how a vertical farming can be combined with a high rise mix use development. This requires close attention to functional, structural, environmental and formal requirements to ensure both parts of the building are equally resolved and are reinforcing each other.

Project site: Aotea Square, Auckland, New Zealand