Results Announcement

The Modular Urban Farm System aims to address food security challenges in urban centers by transforming underutilized vertical spaces within high-rise buildings, such as hotels, office towers, and serviced apartments, into sustainable food production zones. This system offers an alternative to traditional farming, which is typically located in outskirt areas, by integrating efficient farming solutions into urban environments. By doing so, the design ensures a continuous supply of fresh produce during crises and reduces reliance on external food supply chains.

This solution is designed for developers and operators of high-end high-rise buildings, including hotels, office towers, and serviced apartments, that typically have expansive reception lobbies or common areas. The modular nature also makes it suitable for cities with high population density and limited land for traditional agriculture. The system’s modularity allows for easy installation and scalability, adapting to various building layouts and sizes. It promotes urban self-sufficiency, reducing food transportation costs and carbon emissions while offering fresh, local produce.

The use of advanced farming techniques, such as hydroponics or vertical farming, ensures resource efficiency with minimal water and energy consumption. Furthermore, the design turns unused vertical space into an aesthetic and functional green feature, enhancing the environmental and social value of the buildings. This approach not only contributes to food security during crises but also integrates sustainable farming into the fabric of urban life.

Environmental disasters in the Hue Lagoon area of Vietnam, where shoreline erosion is increasing year by year and the area of saline and alkaline land is expanding, have had a severe impact on local food production, economic development, and ecological environment, while at the same time, the cultural decline of the local matrilineal clans, the plight of rural women's unemployment, the lack of a stable source of income, and the low social status of the family in the area of production have become progressively more serious.

In response to these problems, a new path for the organic potato cultivation industry to support indigenous people has been mapped out for rural women through the help of the government and scientific research enterprises. Continuing the quality of traditional production and maintaining ecological sustainability are important considerations for the introduction of new technologies, and modern production methods are integrated into the traditional agricultural landscape, utilizing the many declining traditional temples on both sides of the lagoon for scientific research and teaching purposes. The project plans a tourist route to visit the agricultural waterfront, balancing the industrial conflicts between mangrove conservation and shrimp and crab farming and improving the coastal ecosystem.

Our design is a fish farming net made from chitosan fibers to create an eco-friendly and multifunctional fish farming environment. It consists of two main components: thick chitosan fibers (forming the plastic tube-like structure) and thin chitosan fiber nets that provide structural support while allowing efficient water flow.

The thick chitosan fibers serve as a base for seaweed cultivation, which enhances water quality by absorbing excess nutrients and capturing microplastics, similar to how dead coral reef skeletons attract and hold such particles. This characteristic addresses the growing issue of microplastic pollution in the ocean.

The lower section of the structure has a designated space for rearing clams and oysters. These shellfish are natural biofilters, capable of treating excess food waste from fish and improving the overall health of the aquatic system. Integrating shellfish into the design creates a more self-sustaining ecosystem that minimizes waste and promotes cleaner water.

The target users are environmentally conscious aquaculture operators and sustainable fish farmers who seek an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastic-based fish nets. This chitosan-based net offers a biodegradable solution, reducing long-term waste and environmental damage caused by ghost nets and plastic debris.

Key appealing points include its biodegradability, ability to capture microplastics, and integrated ecosystem approach that combines fish farming with seaweed cultivation and shellfish rearing to promote a sustainable aquaculture model. This structure aligns with the growing demand for green technologies in the aquaculture industry and offers an innovative solution for improving environmental impact while supporting efficient fish farming.

The "PizzUs!" project aims to create an inclusive and multicultural dining experience that connects people from diverse backgrounds. It focuses on providing thoughtful and engaging design, from in-store signage to modular seating, fostering a friendly atmosphere for tourists and locals.

The design primarily targets international tourists visiting Fukuoka and residents interested in social dining. It emphasizes inclusivity, welcoming people from different countries, cultures, and language backgrounds.

Key innovations include:
- Pizza slice-shaped modular tables that encourage solo or group dining.
- Adaptable "Yatai" style setups.
- Interactive signage inspired by pizza slices to aid wayfinding.

The design also integrates social elements, such as sharing food and ideas, building friendships, engaging in cross-cultural dialogues, and fostering mutual understanding and friendship. Additionally, the ordering interface, named "Cornicione," is designed to be user-friendly, offering language translation, currency conversion, and personalized dish recommendations.

Additionally, the initiative supports social welfare by organizing food donation events, allowing patrons to contribute to local needs. Overall, "PizzUs!" is expected to create a welcoming, socially responsible environment that enhances Fukuoka’s reputation as a vibrant and inclusive city.