Seeds flutter in the wind – From “city in the sky” to city in the green

Bihan Cai

Short description

In an era of rapid urbanization and increasing detachment between urban and rural
landscapes, the connectivity between urban and rural areas is becoming more fragmented.
The rise in global temperatures is leading to reduced crop yields and higher food prices. In
order to balance societal, economic, and urban ecological concerns, we are committed to
exploring sustainable urban development models. This design project focuses on "Community,"
"Urban Agriculture," and "Rewilding," with the goal of transforming urban land into productive
spaces, realigning the relationship between farmland and urban development, and creating a
thriving, healthy, and community-driven urban landscape.
The project scope encompasses the A167 highway in the heart of Newcastle, the space in front
of the Manors subway station, and the academic buildings of the Art and Law departments
at Northumbria University. This design enhances agricultural production capabilities while
fulfilling the vibrancy required by the urban environment. By establishing a network of
pollinator pathways and diverse plot types, residents can access farmland within a short
walking distance, achieving a comprehensive integration of urban agriculture. Simultaneously,
it breathes new life into urban infrastructure, restoring the equilibrium between humans and
nature, and fostering biodiversity within the urban space.
Regarding vegetation planting, we emphasize both usability and pollination propagation. The
planted areas within the park not only meet the needs of local residents but can also be sold or
donated to areas with food scarcity, thus strengthening inter-community ties.
Beyond agricultural production, we are constructing a series of community facilities such as
outdoor markets, small-scale livestock husbandry, and grain milling services. Located near the
pollinator pathways, these facilities will create more opportunities for economic development
and innovation. They will attract people to gather, promote community interaction, enhance
social cohesion, while also transmitting agricultural culture and knowledge, allowing urban
residents to gain a deeper understanding of the food production process.
Through the integration of "Community," "Urban Agriculture," and "Rewilding," we will realize
a sustainable transformation of the urban landscape, creating an ecologically balanced,
harmonious coexistence between humans and nature. This project will not only satisfy the
urban residents' demand for fresh food but also evoke a longing for rural life, promoting
community development and innovation, and providing a green and sustainable development
direction for the city's future.