Self-Sufficient Manchester
This thesis reimagines urban agriculture by integrating Lo-TEK principles into Manchester’s urban fabric to create a self-sufficient city. Although based in Manchester, the design proposal can be replicated globally by adhering to the project’s Lo-TEK framework. Originally coined by Julia Watson, Lo-TEK is defined as a design movement aimed at reestablishing indigenous philosophy and vernacular architecture to create sustainable, climate-resilient infrastructures.
In the face of an escalating climate crisis, it is crucial to safeguard and apply such wisdom to guide more environmentally friendly construction practices. This project aims to protect this knowledge by involving indigenous people in the design of cities, respecting their cultural heritage, and promoting their sustainable practices. This approach aims to ensure the harmonious coexistence of humanity and nature, safeguarding the planet for future generations and sustaining the well-being of all living beings.
The project comprises two main components: an overarching urban agriculture masterplan and a detailed proposal for a specific site within it. The masterplan envisions a network of urban agriculture sites that promote self-sufficiency by reducing reliance on imported foods through the incorporation of productive spaces. The detailed site proposal adapts the Milpa Cycle, a Mayan agricultural system, to the UK environment. Named the Milpa Circle, the site focuses on producing a diverse array of foods based on this system, supported by small but highly functional architectural interventions. These include a community shop selling produce from the site and a community seed nursery to protect and cultivate rare edible plant varieties.
The scheme is envisioned as a collaboration among local stakeholders, including councils, educational institutions, and residents, alongside indigenous wisdom keepers. This collective effort aims to create a sustainable society that fosters symbiotic relationships between humans and non-humans to sustain the city.
