Project Description:

My project at the Glasgow School of Art reimagines urban car parks for a future dominated by autonomous vehicles, transforming them into vertical farms. This concept addresses the looming obsolescence of such structures in a self-driving era.

At the heart of the design is its commitment to environmental responsibility and fostering community ties. The entrance area is reconfigured into an inviting lobby, acting as the public interface for this agricultural haven. The floors above are converted to cultivate a variety of crops, employing hydroponics and aeroponics for efficient growth.

A novel rooftop water collection mechanism, featuring an innovative scoop design, captures rainwater, promoting self-sufficiency and embodying sustainable practices.

The building's climate control leverages the stack effect through automated windows. These openings are strategically placed to enable natural air circulation, maintaining optimal temperatures and reducing reliance on artificial cooling.

Energy needs are addressed through solar glazing, serving dual purposes of power generation and natural light facilitation, crucial for plant health. Complementing this, the use of energy-efficient LED lighting and low-voltage systems ensures a minimal environmental footprint while maximising agricultural productivity.

Beyond its architectural significance, the project acts as a vehicle for local economic growth. It provides employment opportunities, thus integrating into the community fabric and fostering a sense of collective ownership and pride.

In essence, this vertical farm not only exemplifies innovative urban redevelopment but also stands as a beacon of sustainable architecture, merging ecological responsibility with community development.