Na Wang

Introduction

Urban vertical planting is the closest human contact with nature in urban life. Plants are constantly changing and depend on the soil, air, water and sunlight for survival, each of which affects their condition. The Urban Vertical Farm uses timed irrigation, thermostats and led lighting to simulate sunlight to maintain a stable growing environment. The plants change over time, rooting, sprouting, stalking, flowering, fruiting and withering. In each state, they create a different atmosphere for the space. In times of prosperity, the space is alive with life. At harvest time, it is full of joy. In the wilting period, it is silent. Combining this with the café, the planting space is interspersed with the relaxing space to create dynamic and different areas for relaxation and exploration. Regardless of the period, the spatial framework will always be present, ensuring the topological relationship of series spaces. Visitors can witness the changes in nature and feel the power of plants. They could learn planting hacks through various activities and feel the benefits of urban gardening with zero transport costs. They, in turn, try their hand at planting in spaces that suit them and then bring nature into more places.

Design

I combined the design elements of a vertical farm with a café. Creating a strong natural atmosphere for each of the small stopover spaces gives a strong sense of connection between the inside and outside of the building. It will be a place where people can feel relaxed and mentally satisfied while getting their tastebuds satisfied.

The plant box will grow a number of fruits and vegetables that can be grown indoors. Educational activities can be held during the weekly tending sessions to show visitors how to grow and care for them. And at harvest time, a harvest party will be held and more people will be invited to participate. I hope that through such activities, more people will feel the joy of growing and be more willing to spontaneously create opportunities for contact with nature in the urban environment as well. Then the city will slowly change spontaneously and nature will be more present in urban life.

The vertical planting modules are stacked to form vertical risers that can be used as partition walls or to enclose separate planting spaces. Polycarbonate panels act as a soft barrier, allowing light to pass through but blurring the outside world's view, ensuring the seating space's privacy. The spaces are separate but still connected.