Within the context of future changes to Havana's economy, competing land uses and population growth in the city; what role(s) can urban agriculture...

Lead Research Organisation: University of Cambridge
Department Name: Architecture

Abstract

(UPA) have as an integrated part of new urban design and housing?

My Masters thesis was concerned with the concept of 'Urban Agriculture' and it's amalgamation within Architectural and urban design discourse as a design tool within cities of the developed North. This study deeply scrutinised the contradictory origins, motivations and emergence over the last two centuries and the fragmentation of this re-current paradigm. This study also analysed how architectural proposals could relate to current land use patterns within Glasgow and Edinburgh rather than as a form of futuristic reinvention of the city. As part of this study, Havana was researched within the framework of its developing economy, adopting the practice at a time of crisis. Within the context of future changes to Havana's economy, competing land uses and population growth in the city; this research aims to study the role(s) that urban agriculture (UPA) as an integrated part of new urban design and housing. The study will involve secondary research to establish a critical framework; this will build upon research carried out at masters level, research by others related to aspects of the present condition of urban agriculture in Cuba and its relationship to the city. This will be supplemented by a visit to Havana to document aspects of existing sites around the city, and primary research through meetings and discussions with those who practice and administer the process. It is proposed that a written thesis will incorporate elements of research by design at three scales.

Publications

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Studentship Projects

Project Reference Relationship Related To Start End Student Name
ES/J500033/1 30/09/2011 01/10/2022
1964574 Studentship ES/J500033/1 30/09/2017 30/12/2022 Michael Collins
ES/P000738/1 30/09/2017 29/09/2028
1964574 Studentship ES/P000738/1 30/09/2017 30/12/2022 Michael Collins
 
Description Findings so far: (not yet complete)
-The transformative potential of urban agriculture within architectural discourse requires a new conceptual framework
-Emerging subject areas of urban theory can be used as a means to broaden existing frameworks.
-A study of existing urban agriculture sites across London illustrates a highly diverse range of activities beyond agriculture that are arguably beyond the current definitions of urban agriculture.
Exploitation Route As a means to frame new arguments and discussions within the subject area of urban agriculture.
Sectors Agriculture

Food and Drink

Communities and Social Services/Policy

Construction

Energy

Environment

Leisure Activities

including Sports

Recreation and Tourism

 
Title Design based research tools through integration with my architecture practice 
Description I am undertaking a range of research by design projects these include`; - Feasibility studies relating to urban agriculture projects in South London. - Involvement with local authorities to advise on similar projects. - Development of urban agriculture consultancy services with partnered architectural practices. 
Type Of Material Improvements to research infrastructure 
Year Produced 2019 
Provided To Others? No  
Impact This is currently in development and the impacts will be disseminated as part of my research. 
URL http://www.michaelcollinsarchitects.com
 
Description Nature Heath and Built Environment Group Cambridge 
Organisation University of Cambridge
Department Nature, Health, and Built Environment
Country United Kingdom 
Sector Academic/University 
PI Contribution This involved monthly seminars, group webinars with partnered organisations/institutions and lectures involving an interdisciplinary research group. My research has informed the direction of lectures and current research interests/themes of the group. This included: - Green facades - Mental health issues and the built environment -Potential collaborations with the Cambridge Institute of public health Interdisciplinary Research Group which is being initiated.
Collaborator Contribution N/A
Impact This collaboration is interdisciplinary involving - Land economy resesrchers - Forestry and architecture - Architecture - Geography
Start Year 2019