inFARMal network

Zachary Aders - Urban Farm

After plotting points at the corners of every favela construction (mapping the points of existing columns+footings), I was able to analyze the density of construction across the area of Grotao and compare that with the slopes of topography.

The farm network I’m proposing would be supported by pouring more concrete around columns of existing houses and footings of cleared houses. The previous constructions of Grotao inhabitants would be a narrative for determining the specific supports and morphology of the farm network, with minimal intervention and maximum impact. A large number of small supporting columns would form a rigid network structure when linked by the surface of the farm, winding its way around existing housing. Light access to existing housing windows would be largely maintained due to the narrow nature of the farm, casting less shadow. This system would grow over time and respond directly to the immediate context in how it wound its way around houses/paths/slope, having the same dynamic construction as the original housing.

The reasons for elevating the farms are: 1. minimal impact on existing structures 2. access to sunlight 3. potential for electrical/plumbing/drainage network 4. food security thru disconnection from ground.

I am working on the specific parameters of the system and the rules in which they would negotiate the existing context.