Final Project Documentation
Kellen Thayer
kellenthayer@gmail.com
Over the past few terms my project has undergone some drastic design changes. While, the function and program has maintained relatively constant, the form and spatial organization has been fluctuating. The final rendition of my project consists of three major built components; A community center, a massive urban farm infrastructure, and mixed use flex space.
The community center has been the centerpiece of the project since day one. It is intended to sit lightly over the fluctuating wetland. It is intended to allow the wetland to filter air and water naturally at an efficient level. The community center consists of classrooms, kitchens, and greenhouses. These functions provide the community with a source of information and education on applicable environmentalism. The mixed-use space sits within the vertical farm and generates funds for the on-site facilities through rentable offices and housing. The urban farm provides the local community with fresh local food which is an increasing global issue as cities like Portland grow denser.
CLT and polycarbonate extrusions are utilized as low global warming potential materials. The southern facade of the dentist part of the project is screened by the vertical farm infrastructure, shading the mixed use spaces. The gable roofs of the community center capture water and relocate it to treatment facilities, which repurpose the water for bathrooms and irrigation.
Such community-centered projects that integrate education, sustainability, and urban farming set a great example for future developments. Having a resource that combines classrooms, greenhouses, and rentable spaces truly supports environmental awareness and local food production in growing cities. For anyone interested in smart kitchen technology that complements sustainable living, I highly recommend checking out contact tovala. Their solutions make preparing fresh, healthy meals effortless, perfectly aligning with the goals of urban farms and eco-friendly communities.