Jury feedback summary
The Community of Farmers Hive presents an environmentally-conscious solution to the relocation of rural farmers to urban cities in China. The Hive is conceptualised as vertically-stacked agricultural plots within cities centres that not only provide communal housing, but also help to grow the green skeleton of the city and act to reduce the effects of heavy pollution.
Based on the grid system, the Community of Farmers Hive is also incredibly flexible and adaptable, and can be reconfigured as needed to suit different locations and situations. Its concept creatively tackles several problems, not just the relocation of rural community farmers, but also improving environmental standards and availability of fresh food to urban communities.
Jury feedback summary
Based on a Chinese communal residence called a ‘tulou’ - or ‘earthen building’ - that was typical of the region in from 960 - 1279 AD, the 21st Century Tulou project was chosen by the panel for its flexibility and adaptability towards community needs. The evolved characteristics of the tulou still utilise natural materials, allowing the structure to blend in with its surroundings as well as fitting in with rural Chinese traditions.
The project features a controlled system of internal courtyards that help to make relocated farmers feel more secure and help to create a sense of ownership. Its bamboo grid makes it both sustainable and rooted in Chinese tradition.