Synergy With The Cosmos: An Exploration Into On-Site Material Growth

BY DANIEL GUERRA & CLAY SEIFERT DR. DANIEL KOEHLER THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN - SOA

CDMX CASE STUDY ON-SITE MATERIAL GROWTH BIOCRETE COMPOSITE SPATIAL AGGREGATIONS

SYNERGY WITH THE COSMOS: ON-SITE MATERIAL GROWTH NOVEMBER 2023

ISSUE 3

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION

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CASE STUDY: COYOACAN, CDMX

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Typology & Morphology BIOCORE COMPOSITE

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Speculative Material PLANTER CELLS

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On-site Material Growth & Construction Process ASSEMBLY FOR MICRO CITY PROGRAMME

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Spatial Modules, Aggregation Systems, and City Programme INTEGRATION OF AUTOMATA

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Minecraft Abstraction Visuals and Speculation SYNERGY WITH THE COSMOS

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Application of Technology: Mexico City Studio Project CONTEXTUAL SPECULATION Application of Technologies around the Globe

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INTRODUCTION Since the moment man discovered their mortality, they erected a tomb. The idea of creating permanence began with the awareness of death. And this desire for permanence translated to the environment, and questions of how the environment should be designed followed suit. One of the earliest thoughts is achieving perfect synergy with the natural environment through imitation, as a way to revere it. This can be traced back to many of the first ancient civilizations, such as Mesoamerica. This concept continued, constantly evolving, subdividing, and becoming more complex with every generation, each with their specific approaches.

And like our predecessors, we took the opportunity to attempt this challenge as well; why don’t we build cities like forests, from forests and with forests?

The built environment often disrupts nature through resource extraction and pollution. "Synergy with the Cosmos" proposes an alternative - on-site cultivation of the plants bamboo and hemp for the creation of Biocore, a speculative material and construction technique. This solution delves on two fronts: on-site material growth leads to carbon sequestration and a reduction in materials transport, and on the concept of growing architecture. Further, supporting local agriculture, economy, and lifestyle. We explore the farming using planters, and the transition of these planter cells into structures and circulation. The results are living architecture symbiotic with their surroundings.

To culminate, we finish by viewing the potential of the technologies in creating growing architecture, and making cities within buildings with our design case study of Mexico City. The design process is deeply integrated with Artificial Intelligence Tools in collaboration with human methodology. This case study serves as a form of Generative Design.

The results are gracefully strong, nourishing structures merging cutting-edge and ancient techniques. Our future depends on buildings in harmony with ecological systems. May this issue inspire creative synergy between human ingenuity and the living cosmos.

BY DANIEL GUERRA & CLAY SEIFERT DESIGN V: DR. DANIEL KOEHLER THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN - UTSOA

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CASE STUDY: COYOACAN, MEXICO CITY First, a depiction of the site chosen for this project is necessary.

Nestled in the vibrant urban landscape of Mexico City, positioned in Coyoacan and adjacent to the Aztec Stadium, our site is a city block of urban sprawl. Upon closer examination of the site, it becomes evident that a well-established pattern of development exists. The typology of city blocks tends to initiate along the edges of the streets, creating void conditions inside of the lot. The structures tend to be multi-generational family homes in shotgun style designs.

There are hints of generational ownership and its transition. Within these blocks, besides residential programme, the only other programme available is small commercial stores.

However, what truly distinguishes this site are the small voids, serving as intimate courtyards, meticulously maintained and cherished by each resident. These spaces are used as atriums or open-air spaces for the owners. They are articulated in different shapes and dimensions, but widely found throughout the entire Mexican typology. Although these are individually owned, their latent potential lies in the possibility of converging these courtyards into communal areas and farmland, which can serve as catalysts for community growth and shared prosperity.

This site proposes a few questions: How can development occur there? Can the residents finance new development? But most importantly, how can we know there is a want for expansion to begin with?

Figure 1: Arial View of Typology

Figure 2: Site Drawing

Figure 3: Specific Site

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Figure 4: Site Analysis

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But what of the residents' desire for expansion? How can we ascertain their wishes for development? Signs of unfinished construction projects within "Varillas de la Esperanza" (Rods of Hope) stand as silent testimony to unfulfilled aspirations. As seen in Figure 5, these incomplete structures, like silent whispers of hope, point to a deep-seated longing for growth and improvement. These exposed steel rebars are a common pattern within our site, the Mexican morphology, as well as any underdeveloped area across the globe. Moreover, the wide variety of materials used in construction within the neighborhood vividly illustrates financial variability (Figure 6).

The variability also suggests generational growth; as the ownership of the homes are passed through generations, new generations are able to slowly contribute to the development of the house. This is regardless of the material, without a care of continuity, but necessity of structure and shelter. While the spectrum of materiality mirrors the economic disparities within the community, it also presents an opportunity for inclusivity, catering to the varying financial capabilities of residents.

Figure 5: Exposed Rebar (Varillas de Esperanza)

Perhaps the most powerful aspect of this project is the chaos and messiness inherently all over it. Recognizing the potential of financial diversity in material variability and the very slow development are key to this project. The design should thoughtfully accommodate different economic backgrounds, while attaining to the rules the site and residents have created.

By doing so, it not only addresses the financial disparities within the community, but also introduces a friendly alien and creates a sense of place.

And what solution could be used to accommodate and fit the conditions of the site -- On-site Material Growth. In the following pages, the introduction of a speculative material growth & extraction, material composite, and construction process will be introduced as Biocore. The plants Moso Bamboo and Hemp will be grown on-site from modules of planters made from the same materials. These planter modules shapeshift into structural walls and are used for the construction of new buildings. From planting to construction, it takes an estimated 3.5 year cycles, suiting the existing conditions of the site at a cheaper cost. Biocore serves as a beacon of progress in a neighborhood marked by slow development and the utilization of the cheapest, most accessible materials.

In essence, this project goes beyond mere architectural transformation; it seeks to weave a narrative of community, sustainability, and empowerment. By recognizing the unique character of the site, the residents' aspirations for growth, and the economic diversity within the community, it aims enrich the lives of its inhabitants and providing a sustainable, harmonious vision for the future.

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Figure 6: Variability in Materiality

Figure 7: Project Speculation / Midjourney AI

BIOCORE COMPOSITE Abstract With increasing environmental awareness, there is a growing need for sustainable and renewable building materials. This article proposes a novel composite comprised of hempcrete reinforced with bamboo fibers and culms. Combining bamboo’s impressive strength capacities with hempcrete’s fire resistance and thermal insulation properties could yield a high-performance eco-friendly construction material. This article reviews the constituents of the composite, hypothesizes its structural advantages, examines prospective construction applications, and outlines areas needing further research. Extensive physical testing and lifecycle assessments of hempcrete-bamboo composites are warranted to quantify performance metrics and environmental impacts.

Introduction Concrete is one of the most ubiquitous building materials globally, but its high embodied energy and carbon footprint are unfavorable sustainability metrics [1]. Hempcrete, comprised of hemp hurds as aggregate in a lime-based binder, offers a greener alternative as its hemp cultivation absorbs CO2 [2]. Bamboo is another fastgrowing renewable material increasingly used in construction, offering high strength-to-weight ratios and rapid renewability [3].

This article proposes combining hempcrete with bamboo fibers and sticks to potentially create a high-strength, low-carbon composite material for structural applications.

Hempcrete Composition Hempcrete typically contains hemp hurds, a lime-based binder (hydraulic and/or hydrated lime), minerals like pozzolans, and water [4]. The hurds act as a plant-based aggregate while lime binders and pozzolanic reactions provide cohesion [2].

Hempcrete is lightweight and resistant to fire, but has low tensile and compressive strength limiting structural capacity [4]. It absorbs moisture readily, necessitating moisture control during construction [4]. Overall, hempcrete provides thermal insulation and air permeability, but lacks strength for load-bearing elements [4].

Bamboo Properties Bamboo offers impressive longitudinal compressive and tensile strength rivaling timber, with higher strength-to-weight ratios [5].

Its rapid maturity and regenerative harvesting enable unparalleled renewability [5]. Bamboo’s smooth exterior and hollow internodes make it versatile for construction applications [5]. Extracted bamboo fibers have high tensile strength and potential to reinforce composites [6]. Durability and stability of bamboo are hindered by fungal decay risks and dimensional changes from moisture fluctuations [5]. With proper preservation treatments, bamboo can serve well in structural applications [5].

Figure 8: Wall Section of Construction / Midjourney AI

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Hempcrete-Bamboo Composite This composite material incorporates hemp hurds as aggregate within a hydraulic/hydrated lime-pozzolan binder matrix, reinforced by dispersed bamboo fibers and vertical bamboo culm elements.

Its constituents are hypothesized to yield advantageous properties: Hempcrete mixture provides fire resistance and insulation.

Interlocking hemp hurds transfer loads between bamboo reinforcing elements.

Dispersed bamboo fibers enhance tensile & compressive strength capacity.

Vertical bamboo sticks provide longitudinal reinforcement for structural loads.

Bamboo reinforcement improves ductility and post-cracking behavior.

The bamboo components are shielded from decay by the alkaline hempcrete, while the hempcrete gains strength from the bamboo reinforcement. The composite could be formed into modular precast blocks or 3D printed on-site, for rapid assembly of walls and partitions. With appropriate treatment and waterproofing, it may be suitable for exterior load-bearing and non-structural uses.

Testing is vital to quantify actual mechanical performance and suitability.

Research Directions While promising, the mechanical properties of hempcretebamboo composites must be validated through rigorous material testing. Key areas for research include:

Conclusion This article proposed the novel application of hempcrete reinforced with bamboo fibers and culms as a sustainable construction material. While promising, extensive physical testing and design refinements are needed to validate feasibility.

Scientifically optimizing bamboo additions to capitalize on the complementary advantages of both plant-derived materials could enable creation of high-strength, low-carbon structural composites. Hempcrete-bamboo composites may provide an eco-friendly alternative to conventional building materials, but thorough research is vital to realize their full potential.

References [1] Hossain, M.U., et al. (2016). Properties of volatile organic compounds and carbon dioxide emissions from concrete incorporating waste glass. Journal of Cleaner Production, 137, 726-739.

[2] Elfordy, S., et al. (2008). Mechanical and thermal properties of lime and hemp concrete (“hempcrete”) manufactured by a projection process. Construction and Building Materials, 22(10), 2116-2123.

[3] Chung, J., & Yu, W. (2002). Mechanical properties of single bamboo fibers. Journal of Material Science, 37(21), 4351-4356.

[4] Walker, R., & Pavía, S. (2014). Mechanical properties and durability of hemp-lime concretes. Construction and Building Materials, 61, 340-348.

[5] Sharma, B., et al. (2015). Engineered bamboo for structural applications. Construction and Building Materials, 81, 66-73.

[6] Islam, M.R., et al. (2011). Mechanical characterization of jute yarn reinforced polypropylene composite film.

Procedia Engineering, 10, 2547-2552.

[7] Bittner, C.M., and V. Oettel. “Fiber Reinforced Concrete with Natural Plant Fibers—Investigations on the Application of Bamboo Fibers in Ultra-High Performance Concrete.” Sustainability, vol. 14, no. 19, 2022, p.

12011. https://doi.org/10.3390/su141912011.

[8] Abdalla, Jamal A., et al. “Use of Hemp, Kenaf and Bamboo Natural Fiber in Cement-Based Concrete.”

Materials Today: Proceedings, vol. 65, 2022, pp. 2070–2072. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.matpr.2022.06.428.

[9] Ahmad, Jawad, et al. “Structural Properties of Concrete Reinforced with Bamboo Fibers: A Review.” Journal of Materials Research and Technology, vol. 24, 2023, pp. 844–865. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmrt.2023.03.038.

Optimizing proportions and sizes of hemp hurds, binder, pozzolans and bamboo constituents.

Investigating bamboo treatment methods to maximize durability.

Testing compressive, tensile, shear, bond, and flexural strengths.

Evaluating crack resistance, ductility, toughness and impact resistance.

Assessing fire resistance and thermal/acoustic insulation performance.

Examining dimensional stability, moisture resistance and freeze-thaw effects.

Lifecycle assessments and cost analyses should also quantify sustainability benefits and economic viability compared to conventional building materials. Building code compliance and construction techniques need addressing prior to full-scale implementation.

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Figure 9: Detail Section of Proposed Construction Method / Midjourney AI

Theoretical Yield Calculation Let’s discuss yield on crop to determine the necessary spatial requirements for growing a building. In this case, we’ll just discuss what it would take to erect a 10'x10'x10' cube of bambooreinforced hempcrete.

For the hempcrete walls, we'd need approximately 400 cubic feet of material. With a density of 11.5 lbs per cubic foot, the total weight would be around 4,600 lbs. Assuming hemp hurd accounts for half the mix by weight, we'd need 2,300 lbs of dry hemp hurd. With typical yields of 2.5-3 tons of hemp stem per acre (75% being hurd), we can estimate needing around 0.56 acres of hemp to produce the required hurd.

For reinforcement, we plan to use 1" x 0.5" bamboo slats spaced 6" apart horizontally and vertically within the walls. This equates to 668 cubic feet of bamboo for the full structure. Given bamboo's hollow and cylindrical nature, we can estimate needing around 15.7 cubic feet of bamboo culm per plant. So for 668 cubic feet total, we'd need approximately 43 mature bamboo plants. With tight spacing, these could likely be grown on a small plot of 0.01 acres or less.

In summary, to construct the 10' cube using hempcrete and bamboo: 0.56 acres of hemp would be required to produce 2,300 lbs of hemp hurd.

43 bamboo plants grown on ~0.01 acres would provide 668 cubic ft of reinforcement.

400 cubic feet of hempcrete would be mixed and formed into the walls.

With the raw materials secured from those agricultural land requirements, the structure could be constructed by embedding the bamboo within the hempcrete forms. The end result would be a renewable and sustainable building utilizing two fast-growing plants.

Yield on 1 SQ M of Land of Bamboo and Hemp Bamboo: Different species of bamboo vary in size and growth habits. Some bamboo species are more clumping, while others are more spreading. Clumping bamboo tends to have a smaller footprint while running bamboo can spread more aggressively. If you are planting a clumping bamboo species with a spacing of around 1 meter apart, you could potentially plant 1 bamboo plant in 1 square meter of land.

Hemp: you can plant anywhere from 1 to 5 hemp plants in 1 square meter of land.

Calculate the yield per area of the following crops: Moso Bamboo and Hemp (Cannabis Sativa Plant).

Moso Bamboo (~3 year turnover rate): 5 ft x 5 ft = 25 sq ft Hemp (~3 month turnover rate): 3 ft x 2.5 ft = 6 sq ft Allowing these to be the nominal dimensions for the crops, the yield is as following (per acre of land): Moso Bamboo = 1,742 Culms/acre (~3 yrs) Hemp = 7,260 plants/acre (~3 months) Translating this to a 3 year turnover rate for both plants: Moso Bamboo = 1,742 Culms (~3 yrs) Hemp = 87,120 plants (~3 yrs) Translate these values into a unit of measurement (feet and grams), we will make two assumptions: the average growth of Moso bamboo after 3 yrs is 15-30 ft per culm and after 3 months, Hemp produces 100 - 300 grams of woody core. We will use the higher value of both ranges for these calculations: Moso Bamboo = 1,742 Culms (~3 yrs) = 26,130 - 52,260 feet of bamboo Hemp = 87,120 plants (~3 yrs) = 8,712,000 - 26,136,000 grams of woody core Further, for each calendar year, per acre: Moso Bamboo = 8,710 - 17,420 feet of bamboo ( 1 yr) Hemp = 2,904,000 - 8,712,000 grams of woody core ( 1 yr) Let us use the average of these range to use as our value: Moso Bamboo = 13,065 feet of bamboo ( 1 yr) Hemp = 5,808,000 grams of woody core ( 1 yr) Things to consider: Percentage of failed crops, natural disasters, plant competition, and plagues. Found how these extraneous variables affect the yield and provide a percentage to subtract from the total: - 25% loss of yield (17.5 % median average) Lastly, we will subtract the ranges for percentage loss: Moso Bamboo = 13,065 feet - 2,286.37 = 10,778.625 feet per year Hemp = 5,808,000 grams - 1,016,400 = 4,791,600 grams per year The following values will be used for all of the calculations regarding the project: Moso Bamboo = 10,778.625 feet per year per acre Hemp = 4,791,600 grams per year per acre

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Construction Process and Technology of Moso Bamboo Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) is a popular bamboo species known for its size and strength. It is commonly used in construction for various purposes, including structural elements, flooring, panels, and more. Here's an overview of the construction process when using Moso bamboo and the technologies that can be employed:

Bamboo Plywood: Moso bamboo strips can be processed into plywood for flooring, walls, and furniture.

Bamboo Composite Materials: Engineered bamboo products can be used for added strength and durability.

Bamboo Matting: Bamboo mats or panels can be used for wall and ceiling coverings.

6. Assembly and Joinery:

1. Harvesting and Selection: Moso bamboo is typically harvested when it reaches 5-6 years of age because it is then at its peak strength and durability.

Select bamboo culms (stems) that are straight, free from pests and diseases, and have uniform thickness and strength.

2. Preservation and Treatment: Proper preservation and treatment are essential to protect Moso bamboo from pests, decay, and environmental factors.

Common preservation methods include: Boiling: Bamboo can be boiled to remove sugars and starches, making it less appealing to pests.

Boron Treatment: Boron-based solutions can be used to prevent insect infestations and decay.

Heat Treatment: Heat treatment can improve durability and dimensional stability.

3. Drying:

Use appropriate joinery techniques and connectors to assemble bamboo components securely.

Traditional joinery methods like lashing with natural fibers or modern connectors like steel brackets can be used.

7. Finishing and Maintenance: Finish the bamboo surfaces as needed for aesthetics and protection.

Regular maintenance, including reapplication of treatments, may be required to ensure the bamboo's longevity.

Minimum Planter Depth for Moso Bamboo and Hemp Bamboo: When planting Moso bamboo, it's advisable to use a containment system with a barrier that extends at least 24 to 30 inches (60 to 76 centimeters) below the soil surface to control its growth. Additionally, ensure that the soil depth is sufficient for healthy root development, typically at least 18 to 24 inches (45 to 60 centimeters).

Hemp: The minimum planter depth for hemp plants can range from 12 to 18 inches (30 to 45 centimeters)

Bamboo should be properly dried to reduce moisture content.

Kiln drying or air drying are common methods.

4. Design and Planning: Create detailed architectural and engineering plans that incorporate Moso bamboo into the design.

Ensure that the bamboo components meet structural and safety requirements.

5. Construction Techniques and Technologies: Several construction techniques and technologies can be used with Moso bamboo: Bamboo Framing: Moso bamboo can be used for framing structures such as houses, bridges, and pavilions. Proper engineering and connection details are critical.

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Figure 9: Bamboo Species Comparison

PLANTER CELLS Now that a material composite and yield has been introduced, the next issue to address is how these will be grown on-site, stores, processed, and turned into growing architecture.

Our team designed a planter cell (Figure 10), which can be articulated and shaped into different purposes. It is constructed of Moso Bamboo and Hempcrete infill.

Figure 12: Planter Cells as a drying and storage system

Figure 11: Planter Cells creating a row, being able to define and shape space.

Figure 10: Single Planter Cell

The design is simple, using half and full culms for the structure. The dimensions shown above (with the exception of the vertical full culms) are the minimum for planting both moso bamboo and hemp plant. However, these can extend in width, length, and height. This variability in the sign will accomodate the needs and applications of the residents.

Figure 12: Planter Cells used for the sun-drying and storage of bamboo culms and hemp; bamboo is inserted in between the slots being held by the full culms and the hemp is dried inside of the planter.

Figure 13: Planter Cells used as circulation; bamboo as structural support and steps made of heat up and flat bamboo.

Functioning as a cell, it can be merged with others to create different programmes:

Figure 11: Row of Planter Cells

Figure 13: Planter Cells as circulation

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Figure 14: Planter Cells extending on the X and Z Dimension

Figure 15: Circulation Planter Cell Formations

Figure 16: Drying Planter Cell Formations

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Figure 17: Circulation Planter Cell Formations / Stable Diffusion

Figure 17: Planter Cell Formations / Stable Diffusion

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Wall and Roof Construction Taking inspiration from the bamboo growth due to cellular elongation, we abstracted the method for the transition of a planter cell to a structural wall.

Figure 18: Planter Cell Wall Transformation 4/7 Steps

Figure 19: Planter Cell Wall Transformation 7/7 Steps

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In Figure 18 & 19, the development process for a planter cell to a wall is depicted: 1. Planter Cells filled with soil, growing hemp plants used for construction. For most of the cells’ lifetime, it will remain at this position.

2. Once the respective resident/community make a decision to create a structure, based on the available materials, the width of the planter cell is cut down from 4 FT to 1.5 FT. The material that was cut/replaced will be stored for foam work.

3. In this step, where the soil once was, the planter is populated with full bamboo culms in the indicated pattern. The bamboo must be touching each other to provide a thermal gap using the hollow nature of the culm.

4. Pour in the Biocore composite into the original planter, let the material set.

5. Using scrap/existing bamboo culms, attach these to the horizontal culms on the longer side of the cell. This can be done all at once or progressively by levels depending on the user’s materials and abilities.

6. For this step, repeat the previous step but on the width of the planter cell. Once all four sides are sealed shut, pour in Biocore composite and let it dry.

7. Lastly, remove the foam work for the composite up until desired level. To maintain consistency with the other planter cells, we suggest to level the foam work with the planters.

Roof Construction Process The roof construction process is simpler and requires less time to construct. It consists of overlapping full bamboo culms running on opposite directions. These are then infilled with composite.

Figure 21: Biocore Composite Roof Construction

Figure 22: Biocore Composite Wall Construction Render

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ASSEMBLY FOR MICRO CITY PROGRAMME Evaluating the arrangement of spaces within existing developments is relatively easy -- most units in any multifamily development (or any building, for that matter) follow a basic program from which spatial conditions are derived. Additionally, when building, most construction is a result of modular components -- look at any midrise office or apartment building. This suggests that potentially automating the creation of space using modular components may be a way to allow non-specialists access to architectural sensibilities.

We began constructing our own modules that were capable of being built with the BioCore construction system (Bamboo culms with BioCore infill). Multiple different spatial modules were created, and then we began developing a script for the automation of the digital planning assembly of these parts.

In the initial script, only 3 components were accounted for: slabs, walls, and stairs. Using Wasp, these components began to aggregate in a way that was technically feasible, but lacked spatial meaning.

So, we modified the script for more complex components (see Figure 4). Using a system where pre-made spatial modules (in a 6'x6'x8' dimension (derived from human dimensions)) began to aggregate with one another, far more sensical spaces were created. Using corner modules as anchor points, exterior walls (with and without a window) populate, and then the central area is filled, either with blank slabs, or interior wall modules that further subdivide the space. This approach allowed us to get far more complex aggregates that began to create legitimately occupiable spaces.

Figure 23: Selection of Spatial Modules

Figure 24: Structural System (Left - Hempcrete infill / Right - Bamboo)

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In the final iteration, a hierarchical algorithm was used, where parts arranged themselves at a microscale (ie. <15 parts for one occupiable unit with a comprehensive program), and then began to aggregate with both the old parts and the new derived spatial modules. This allowed for a more complex creation of space that was programmatically viable, while still maintaining some flexibility.

Aggregation Systems

Figure 25: Aggregation of Meaningful Spaces / Grasshopper

Figure 26: Floor Plan of Aggregation / Grasshopper

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City Programme Modules In adopting a systems thinking approach for the development of our city programme modules, we have envisioned a comprehensive plan to rejuvenate our site, aiming for financial resilience and robust community engagement. The cornerstone of this revitalization is the integration of diverse programs that cater to the multifaceted needs of the community.

Our strategy encompasses basic amenities essential for daily life, such as grocery stores, restaurants, and pharmacies.

These facilities will ensure that residents have convenient access to essential goods and services, reducing the need for travel outside the community and fostering a local economy.

In addition to these necessities, our focus extends to community engagement programmes. This includes versatile classrooms and workshops, designed to encourage lifelong learning and skill development. An amphitheater and open-air gathering spaces will serve as nuclei for cultural events, community meetings, and social interactions, vital for strengthening communal bonds.

Figure 27: Cafe Module

Moving beyond conventional offerings, we aim to democratize access to facilities typically reserved for upper-social echelons. This includes yoga rooms, theaters, and gyms, which will not only enhance the quality of life but also promote physical and mental well-being for all residents, irrespective of their social status.

By transforming the traditional city block from a mere residential housing area with a few stores into a micro-city, we envision creating a self-sustainable ecosystem. This micro-city concept is designed to empower its inhabitants, providing not just housing but a holistic living environment. It encourages active participation in the local economy and community life, fostering a sense of ownership and pride among residents.

Figure 28: Cornerstore Module

This shift towards a more integrated, inclusive, and selfsustaining urban block represents a significant step in urban development. It aligns with contemporary trends in creating more livable, connected, and resilient urban spaces. By embracing this model, we are not just redesigning physical spaces but also reimagining the social fabric of the community, making it more inclusive, vibrant, and sustainable.

Figure 29: Amphitheater Module

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Figure 30: Coworking Spaces

Figure 31: Library Space

Figure 32: Coworking Spaces

Figure 33: Art Gallery

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INTEGRATION OF AUTOMATA For the harvesting of plants, to the creation of the planter, it begs the question what will be in charge of these. Although this technology could be utilized and learned by humans, we propose using Automata dedicated for this purpose.

To begin, conceptualizing what an automata dedicated for planting and harvesting will be: stationary or mobile.

Visualizing this process, we used Minecraft Redstone Mechanisms as a form of abstraction. With this software, players mimic realworld electronic components (switches, buttons, sensors, pistons) to automate systems dedicated to their growth. This can be applied to simple automatic doors based on proximity, or automating construction of walls. Building with Redstone systems encourages logic and computation.

First, the stationary application. This one focuses on a stationary programme with the purpose of planting, irrigating, and harvesting plants (Figure 33). For this machine, we grow machine inside the main cavity. It has multiple “Observers” acting as sensors for the height of the bamboo. Whenever it reaches the 3 meter point, the Observers send a signal to the pistons to chop down 2 meters of the culm, leaving the sprout to grow again. It is then collected by a “Hopper in a minecart”, acting as an automata collector for the plant. This remains a stationary machine.

Figure 33: Interior View of Mechanism

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Figure 33: Restone Stationary System

Figure 33: Interior Cavity

On the other hand, we could approach the automation of the plants differently. Instead of designing a programme for the machines, the machines adapt to the existing programme. For this second scenario, the Redstone system relies on using “Villagers” or known as Non-Playable Characters. These can be programmed for specific tasks depending on the machinery available near them. In this case, by placing the object “Composter”, these NPCs then carry out the tasks of farmer (collecting crops ready to be harvested, and then plant them again.)

Each Villager, substituting a robot, will perform the tasks allocated within their area based on their available tools. They will relay in communication with a core robot, focused in storing the crops (located at the center, without a green top).

Figure 34: Underground Storage and Collection System

Figure 35: Empty Site with four quadrants (allocated area of NPCs)

Figure 37: Sketch of potential Automata for BioCore.

Showcased in Figure 37 is a rudimentary example of how the automata existing on the site could appear and function. It will need to carry out the following features: grasp/grab, cut/bandsaw, move in the X-Y axis, and built-in storage space.

To adapt to a variety of site conditions, it must be integrated with AI and ML models. At the same time, the resident’s must be able to sustain its basic maintenance and provide adequate shelter for them, treating the automata as a member of the community.

Figure 36: Arial View of System

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SYNERGY WITH THE COSMOS: MEXICO CITY PROJECT This technology will allow the residents to expand based on their needs, desires, and abilities. In all instances, the aggregation and expansion of the buildings through the years would be organic, a natural system organized by the residents. However, for this case study, we are proving one usage this technology and methodology.

Our site programme focuses on re-defining what a urban sprawl, city block constitutes of: a city block as a micro city. Below is our site plan:

Figure 37: Site Plan

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Figure 38: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 39: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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MASSING SPECULATION

Figure 40 Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 41: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 42: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 43: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 44: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 45: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 46: Stable Diffusion - Control Net/ / Midjourney

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Figure 47: Roof Plan

Figure 48: 35FT Plan

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Figure 49: Transversal Section

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Figure 49: Transversal Section

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SPATIAL ORGANIZATION

Figure 50: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 51: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 52-54: North Facade / Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 55: Interior Pavillion Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 56: 35FT View / Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 57: Interior Pavillion 35FT / Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 58: North-East Entrance / Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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EIDETIC IMAGE

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EIDETIC IMAGE

Figure 59: Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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CONTEXTUAL SPECULATION

Figure 60: Eldoret, Kenya Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 61: Lima, Peru Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 62: Paris, France Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 63: Tokyo, Japan - Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 64: Xi’an, China Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 65: Thimphu, Bhutan Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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CONTEXTUAL SPECULATION

Figure 66: Santorini, Greece Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 67: Bhaktapur, Nepal Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 68: Luang Prabang, Laos Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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Figure 69: Salvador, Brazil - Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 70: London, United Kingdom - Stable Diffusion - Control Net

Figure 71: Marrakech, Morocco - Stable Diffusion - Control Net

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