Nature’s Haven
Integrating Vertical Villages in the Future
Project Narrative
To address the issue of food scarcity and help the residents of isolated communities, a comprehensive program was developed that includes a farmers market, a greenhouse with a research lab and vertical gardens, and a shared communal kitchen for residents to dine together. The design principles were driven by growth, stacking, and blooming, resulting in a vertical village that can evolve over the years.
The housing design was developed specifically for elderly and senior residents who are likely to become an isolated community. Micro-housing units were created for these residents, combining the living, dining, and sleeping areas to make the most of the available space and encourage a cleaner lifestyle. The existing typologies around the site were used to inform the shape of the building, prioritising nature by creating shared balconies that allow residents to personalise them according to their preferences.
The prototype aims to address the challenges posed by the growing and ageing population by creating a vertical village within a city landscape that is sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. The design prioritises nature and encourages interaction among the residents, ensuring that they have access to fresh food and a sense of community.
Revitilising isolated communities.
Project Details
Project Location : Sheffield, United Kingdom
Project Type : Individual
Project Typology : Residential
Project Length : 3 Weeks
Lab Tutor : Katrina Hughes
Building and Environmental Strategy
1. Daylighting
The building has been positioned on the site to
maximise daylighting into the greenhouse to facilitate
the healthy growth of produce. This aligns with the
concept of designing a ‘vertical village’.
2. Belonging and Attachment
The building draws inspiration from local typologies
like Park Hill and prioritises community and social
interaction with nature such as the shared residential
balconies to spark interaction.
3. Maximising Resources
The building is sustainably designed with a focus on
stacking elements over time. This approach is reflected
in the choice of materials and the micro-home design
concept.
4. Inclusive Design
A key aim is to design for isolated communities within
Sheffield. This aligns with the RIBA Project Strategies
which is to design a barrier-free environment for
residents to advance sustainable communities and good
wellbeing. This is vital considering the building is set
to extend vertically.
Other Projects
The Harvest Hub
The prototype aims to address the challenges posed by the growing and ageing population by creating a vertical village within a city landscape that is sustainable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing.
The Lakehouse Retreat
The retreat is a home away from home. It focuses on simplicity and functionality with narrow, elongated space maximises every inch.
Transition and Flexibility
The opportunity was given to participate in a one-week international workshop with the Hiroshima Institute of Technology alongside other fellow students from Loughborough.