At Studio G we strive to seamlessly integrate architecture and landscape. But what happens when you build within the urban context of concrete and high-rise? How do we blend interior and exterior environments in a way that supports and reflects the project’s programmatic needs, while responding to the site in a valuable and sustainable way?
During a presentation to New England Women in Real Estate (NEWIRE), on April 24, 2012, Gail Sullivan addressed this issue, focusing on sustainable communities and urban agriculture.
Defined as the cultivation, processing and distribution of food within a city, urban agriculture is a critical element in the creation of sustainable cities. Urban agriculture helps create a network of city villages where people can live, work and play. It can provide jobs, support and services for people in need, while ensuring access to healthy food, outdoor space, and the social network we all need for healthy, balanced lives.
Architecturally, the potential for integrating agriculture into the urban fabric is huge. Gail discussed a range of options, including rooftop and vertical gardens, creative structures for hydroponics and aquaculture, urban beekeeping and poultry programs, orchards parks, and adaptive reuse of industrial and commercial buildings for farming practices.
Studio G is continually looking for innovative ways to incorporate agricultural elements into our projects, and we believe that widespread implementation could become a major contributor to the economic, environmental and social sustainability of our cities.
New England Women in Real Estate is the region’s leading professional organization promoting the advancement of women within the commercial real estate industry. To learn more visit: http://www.newire.org/
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