Garden A_Pneu

Garden A_Pneu explores new models of urban agriculture that converts large-volume vacant structures into productive indoor farming environments. The proposed agricultural system integrates aeroponic, soilless gardening within a modular, inflatable (pneumatic) membrane structure. The project’s toroidal form is composed of a series of inflatable pillows with removable growing trays developed to support a year-round, pesticide-free farming environment with integrated lighting and irrigation. 

The indoor farms are conceived as an interim stabilization strategy intended to boost local food economies, encourage micro-commerce and enhance the quality of urban life. The surface of the torus is composed of a series of inflatable 2’ x 3’ biopolymer pillows designed with a recess to hold one growing tray each. Reinforcing stiffeners maintain the pillow shape, and individual air cavities are tailored to house electrical, water and air supply systems. Planting palettes of micro-greens, edible flowers and herbs are curated to produce colorful interior effects when lit.

Team

Diane Davis-Sikora, Project Designer
Sara Rabinowitz, Fibers Consultant
Hallie Crouch, Narrative Design