Designing competitions give ordinary folk a chance to present their concepts to the world, envisioning change and innovation. They also pave the way for governments to establish infrastructure based on them. The Harlem Edge is one such competition that encourages residents of Harlem to come up with redevelopment ideas for the now decommissioned Department of Sanitation site. Competitors are asked to create a concept taking into consideration public access, urban agriculture, creative programming, facilitation of economic activity, and sustainability.
A certain entry stood out among the finalists titled, Greenhouse Transformer, conceived by Rafael Luna and Dongwoo Yim of PRAUD, a Boston firm. The design visualizes food production that acts as a catalyst for human activity. This will see residents actively participating in the production of food, making the building sustainable.
According to the designers, urban farming is largely restricted due to climatic conditions. Since rural areas base their agricultural practices on developed irrigation systems, it is easier to facilitate food production. To work around this problem, Luna and Yim have envisioned using mechanical means to create artificial climate changes inside the building, suitable for food production.
Greenhouse Transformer isn’t only about urban agriculture, however; it is a place where farmers’ markets can be set up during the summer months, where produce is sold to local food vendors on the open deck plaza. The building will also have space for educating people on the methods of urban farming and learners will also be able to see the entire process first hand. Funds from the produce sold will be used to sustain the learning program. To promote exchange of culture, Green Transformer will house areas for entertainment and recreational activities.
Yim and Luna’s novel concept seems to have incorporated everything a community would need for its smooth functioning. What’s admirable is the level of participation that would be involved if Greenhouse Transformer ever sees reality.
Via: Bustler
