Bridging Landscapes: Connecting the City Through Productive Greenscapes

Abstract

This thesis explores ideas of social and ecological sustainability that emphasize ethically-based design processes that enhance life without depleting resources. A strong inter-relationship between society and the environment can be created with sustainable building and infrastructure systems that take shape through the form of urban agriculture. Proposing an interactive horticultural centre dedicated to hands on learning and research will embed ideologies of health and wellness with productive greenspaces to create a more ecologically resilient and health conscious community. The facility is strategically placed on the site to create a transitional experience that shifts between built, cultivated and natural environments resulting in increased levels of physical activity as the user moves through the undulating landscape. The proposed facility is located in Lethbridge, Alberta and incorporates elements of urban agriculture, health and wellness, education and research, and community integration.