Building agriculture: an architectural investigation of a new urban farm type to establish food sovereignty In Regent Park, Toronto

Abstract

1 in 8 households in Canada do not have adequate access to healthy and affordable food1 Across the country this issue is even more prevalent in urban centers compared to rural areas2 .Considering that by 2050, it is estimated that 68% of the world’s population will live in cities, more needs to be done in order to ensure proper production, distribution and disposal of food in and around cities as they continue to expand3 . A strong interest in sustainability has brought this topic to light because food is something that connects everyone, and the food industry has significant health, social, and environmental impacts throughout communities around the world. Today, the food network is a global system, leaving behind past traditions of locally grown food, which supported local farmers, and the local economy. This has resulted in a disconnect between producers and consumers, and a lack of equity in the food system. As a result, the issue of food sovereignty is the driving factor behind this thesis proposal; and more specifically how the integration of architecture and agriculture can begin to establish food sovereignty in an urban environment through the introduction of an urban farm that can grow food all year round utilizing sustainable practices. The thesis research will look at current issues with the food network, and examine urban agriculture case studies around the world, within Canada, and in the city of Toronto. Toronto was chosen as the urban context for the project because it is one of the most advanced cities globally in regards to urban agriculture initiatives, and the cold climate presents challenges that very few projects globally have dealt with. More specifically, the thesis will look at Regent Park in Toronto’s East end, a neighbourhood that has undergone significant development over the past decade. Regent Park has a history of food sovereignty which began in the mid 1800’s when the area was known as South Cabbagetown, due to the Irish immigrants who grew cabbages and other vegetables on their front lawns for food4 The architectural solution proposed will be an urban farm that prioritizes education in association with other community led program; looking at the food system in a holistic way in order to establish a closed loop food system. The thesis aims to establish a solution that not only transforms the chosen site, but a solution that can begin to influence different areas by setting out principles that re-imagine how the city and others around the world can use design in order to better integrate food sovereignty within urban environments.