The Eco-techno City is a proposal designed by Russian architect Orzunova Eduardovna as a floating mega-city constructed on top of a complex network of artificial islands. The main recreational and service areas are located in the periphery while the residential hub is located in a 500 feet-high skyscraper. This structure is equipped with vertical farms and diverse green technologies including an undulating façade covered with photovoltaic cells and rainwater collectors located through the vertical parks. Read the rest of this entry »
Vertical Oasis in Syria is a Hydroponic Farm
For the first time in its modern history, Syria had to import wheat after a serious drought in 2008 where the majority of the farmers’ crops failed. At the same time, the fertile land of their oases is rapidly disappearing under the increasing urban sprawl – water and green open spaces are very precious commodities in this region.
In response to the alarming situation in Syria and other Middle Eastern countries, architects James Murray and Toby Lloyd from the United Kingdom proposed a series of vertical hydroponics oases which provide housing and allotments for local residents. It only utilizes ten percent of the water needed in regular farming. Hydroponic towers can increase the yield and quality of horticulture crops. At the same time, by eliminating the soil, you eliminate soil borne disease and weeds while gaining precise control over quality.
Offices and laboratories are also provided for the scientists as well as housing for the caretakers. A local market is provided at the base of the tower where local produce will be sold.
An external and internal “waffle” structure provides anchor for “growth” pods. A series of structural pipes feed these hydroponic pods which plug-in to the main structural frame. The project also counts with water collectors, purification tanks, wind turbines, and solar panels. Read the rest of this entry »
Vertical Farms
Ruwan Fernando
Australia
This design by Australian architect Ruwan Fernando is an open skyscraper with five clusters of u-shaped structures for vertical farming. This project is designed for low-depth water bodies – it uses specialized mechanical filaments for tidal energy production.
The shape of the clusters allows maximum sunlight and ventilation. It utilizes wind turbines and solar panels to produce the remaining energy requirements. The idea is to create a network of vertical farms and connect them with monorails, roads, and pedestrian bridges. Read the rest of this entry »