Boosting Urban Soil

Commons of Post-human urbanisation - Architecture, Materiality, Synergies

Master thesis (2023)

Authors

L.G.F. Mézière Architecture and the Built Environment

Contributors

J.P.M. van Lierop Theory, Territories & Transitions - Architecture and the Built Environment (graduation committee member)
A.S. Alkan Theory, Territories & Transitions - Architecture and the Built Environment (mentor)
J.D. Fokkinga Architectural Technology - Architecture and the Built Environment (graduation committee member)
Faculty
Architecture and the Built Environment, Architecture and the Built Environment
Copyright: © 2023 Lucas Mézière
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Published Date

26-01-2023

Language

English

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Faculty

Architecture and the Built Environment

Abstract

The ecological question is symptomatic of our time and a multi-disciplinary problem. The material manipulations produced by the architectural and urban design disciplines interfere with essential ecosystemic processes by introducing disruptive materialities and machinery. This work aimed to participate in shaping a solid foundation for the discursive and constructive nature of the practice.
After preliminary definitions, this essay investigates the fundamental ecological dysfunctions caused by the current urban and architectural design model and the construction industry. This preliminary part exposes the leading causes in terms of design semiotics, urban architecture and materiality.
At the urban scale, I then introduce an elementary framework intended for the urban developers, designers and authorities. I propose to establish the 'universal commons', such as air, water and soil, as the elementary infrastructure of the sustainable urban condition and implement, develop and protect them as such.
The final part is dedicated to architectural interventions and develops the previously established principles through the two scales of the site: local and remote.
My research focused on the soil condition, and the design showcases a possible application in terms of urban infrastructure, construction techniques, materiality and architectural principles, to the location of Three Mills Island, in the Lea Valley of London, UK.