The Community Network - Urban acupuncture as a sustainable development approach

THE COMMUNITY NETWORK URBAN ACUPUNCTURE AS A METHOD TO CREATE A SUSTAINABLE NETWORK OF ACTIVITIES.

Madison Sacramone MSc Advanced Sustainable Design The University of Edinburgh - College of Art ASD Design Project - ARCH 11041 - 2021

CONTENT KNOWING PLACE

METHODOLOGY

FRAMING THE FUTURE

Methodology Precedent Design Methodology Local Deprevations Micro analysis Public Survey Ideation

Site Analysis User Analysis Place Standard Tool

Approach Sustainable Development Goals A Shared Vision Town Center Development Proposed Plan

PROPOSAL & CONCEPT Design Proposal What is Urban Acupuncture?

Design Concept Framework

PRECEDENT Precedent Studies Material Research

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT Introducing Interventions Mapping Interventions Ideation

DESIGN SOLUTION Overview Offer Heritage Comfort Innovate Revive Guidance Summary of Outcomes

DESIGN BRIEF PROPOSAL FOR NEW DEVELOPMENTS AT SHAWFAIR, UNITED KINGDOM

The current state of the Shawfair settlement is sparse and sporadic, much of the site has remains of coal and agriculture industries which are no longer active. A proposed new development for the site will take a great deal of time to complete; therefore, a phased development will allow the town to grow steadily and be reassessed based on how people use space. New developments have the challenge to predict how spaces will be used before they are built. Traditionally, a new town plan would be zoned in specific categories but, this approach is at risk of subconscious deficiencies within the urban fabric. Housing is often the heart of a development because it is a necessity and relatively predicable but, community engagement is often secondary and difficult to assess what people will want/need. Designing and building community hubs can have a high initial start-up cost and reoccurring management expenses, encouraging smallscale interventions will be more cost efficient and adaptable overtime. Multiple smallscale interventions can connect a community on a larger scale. By designing a variety of activity areas spread amongst Shawfair, there leaves room for future development inbetween, encouraging local businesses to open around busy community hubs.

The theory of urban acupuncture will drive this project. If urban acupuncture is integrated into the town fabric from the start, then a strong foundation will allow the community to develop from small design interventions. When points of activity are designed collectively, this forms a recreational district which encourages dense use by occupants at the risk of deficiencies developing elsewhere but, if these key activity points are dispersed throughout a town, they can act as pin points for linking the community together through an active network of key destinations. Urban acupuncture aims to reclaim land to the public and emphasizes the importance of community development.

Small design interventions will simultaneously promote activity, connectivity and space to pause among an urban settlement.

KNOWING PLACE

SITE ANALYSIS OVERVIEW

SHAWFAIR, UNITED KINGDOM

Shawfair is a town located in Midlothian, Scotland. Shawfair is in close proximity to Edinburgh City, the new development will encourage people to migrate to the suburban life with larger open space, surrounding woodlands, landscape and active transportation networks. The existing Shawfair train station connects the town directly to Musselburgh, Newcraighall and Edinburgh with connecting trains throughout the UK.

HISTORY Shawfair was put on the map as a coal mining site, this attracted settlers to build up the site. There is evidence of the remains from housing to inactive, filled mining sites. When coal mining was no longer able to support the community, agriculture became a leading income. Both mining and agriculture have rooted legacies that exist today.

PLANNED DEVELOPMENT Plans to develop Shawfair have been in the making for a number of years. Various proposals have begun to take shape, making Shawfair a new, exciting and inovative place is the priority. The suburban town will feature many mix-use buildings with open and green space throughout.

This project will create a new proposal for Shawfair with sustainability as the key driver.

https://www.shawfair.co.uk/

https://www.shawfair.co.uk/

SITE ANALYSIS CLIMATE Macro - Meso - Micro Understanding the local climate and environmental conditions throughout the year is essential to design and plan effective places and systems.

A strong understanding for place will influence the most successful designs.

WEATHER CONDITIONS IN MIDLOTHIAN EFFECTS USE OF OUTDOOR SPACE

Weather conditions will effect the types of play and recreation that people can/will use throughout the seasons. Precipitation and Temperature are two major factors that will influence outdoor space use.

PRECIPITATION

WIND

Rainfall in is relatively low, totaling about 749 mm annually.

Precipitation occurs over the year averaging 129 days.

In colder or wet months we may consider designing covered or indoor areas. We should design a creative solution that will encourage yearround use of outdoor space and recreation.

Types of covered play areas.

TEMPERATURE High & Low temperature by month in celcius.

High Temp Low Temp

DAYLIGHT HOURS Average Total daylight hours per month.

The longest days run between May to July at an average of 166 daylight hours per month.

USER ANALYSIS WHO ARE WE DESIGNING FOR? Consider Social Classes in Midlothian Scotland based on average income.

DISTRIBUTION OF NON-WHITE ETHNIC BACKGROUNDS IN SCOTLAND

Average Salary is £29,000

Environmental inequality researchers have increased our understanding of race- and class-based environmental inequality. Access to sufficient outdoor recreation and play space is often directed by the funds available in a community.

66.8% of People Employed

We can take this information to inform or designs for creating adequate natural spaces for everyone to enjoy and consider the associated costs for management to propose creative solutions.

MIDLOTHIAN POPULATION BY AGE GROUP AND GENDER

MIDLOTHIAN HOUSEHOLD TYPES AND PROJECTION BETWEEN 2018 AND 2028 15,000

White 96%

Asian, Asian Scottish or Asian British 2.6%

10,000

Other Ethnic Group 0.4%

0 to 15

Any mixed or multiple ethnic groups 0.3%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

We should start by looking at the ethnic demographics of Scotland as a whole because Shawfair is a new community development that hopes to encourage people across Scotland and the UK to migrate here.

Research taken in 2018

16 to 24

25 to 44

45 to 64

65 to 74

75 +

Identifying age groups of the population is important to cater our designs to meet their specific wants and needs.

Caribbean or Black 0.1% 0%

It is evident that the largest age groups are 25 to 44 and 45 to 64. We can use this information by further evaluating these generations and what the might benefit from.

We may also consider the constant aging generations. For example, ages 25 to 44 may be having children in the future and ages 45 to 64 may need different resources as they age into seniors.

Research taken in 2018

2028

0

2018

Male

African 0.5%

Female

5,000

One Adult

Two Adults

One adult, Two or more one or more adults, one or more children children

Three or more adults

Household types may inform our decisions for housing, amenities, recreation, energy, jobs and more.

This is important from Macro and to Micro in order to determine housing layouts.

Research taken in 2018

USER ANALYSIS USER PERSONAS

Personas were developed to identify the stakeholders in the development of design interventions for Shawfair. The personas are theoretical people, based on collected feedback and evidence, who frequently use the site and therefor it effects their daily activities. We will consider key personas as we design solutions for the site.

USER ANALYSIS

PERSONAS

-

By creating a “family calendar” derived from the developed personas, we can identify how a family might use spaces in Shawfair and what their priorities and needs are. This is an exercise that helps us to imagine what a day in the life may be like for a household of 5.

Manages family farm Picks kids up from school Cooks family dinner

Drop kids at school Commutes to Edinburgh to work

Attends school Go to park with Grandma

Attends nursery school Go to park with Grandma

Assists with child care Plays cards with friends Bring kids to the park

Manages family farm Go to the gym

Drop kids at school Works from home Pick-up from school Grocery Shop

Attends school Go shopping with mom Help Grandma cook dinner

Attends nursery school Go shopping with mom

Assists with child care Goes to exercise class Cooks family dinner

Manages family farm Picks-up from school Family movie night Go out for dinner

Drop kids at school Works from home Family movie night Go out for dinner

Attends school Goes to movie theatre with mom & dad

Attends nursery school Goes to movie theatre with mom & dad

Assists with child care Visits extended family in Edinburgh for dinner

Manages family farm Cooks family dinner

Drop kids at school Commute to Edinburgh for work

Attends school Go to friend’s house for play-date after school

Attends nursery school Plays at home with grandma

Assists with child care Pick-up from school

Manages family farm Watch football practice Order take-away dinner

Drop kids at school Works from home Pick-up from school Watch football practice

Attends school Goes to football practice at the park

Attends nursery school Watch football practice

Assists with child care Scheduled doctor appointment Watch football practice

Go for a hike at the Pentland Hills Watch Football game Family dinner

Go for a hike at the Pentland Hills Watch football game Family dinner

Has a ski lesson at the Pentland Hills Football game Gets pizza with team

Plays during ski lesson Enjoys playground during game Family dinner

Watch ski lesson and play with youngest Play cards with friends Family dinner

Goes out for family breakfast to meet with friends Goes for walk at Roslin Glen Park

Goes out for family breakfast to meet with friends Goes for walk at Roslin Glen Park

Goes out for family breakfast to meet with friends Goes for walk at Roslin Glen Park

Goes out for family breakfast to meet with friends Goes for walk at Roslin Glen Park

Goes out for family breakfast to meet with friends Goes for walk at Roslin Glen Park

PLACE STANDARD TOOL The Place Standard Tool was developed by the Scottish Government to assess places. Whether the place is well-established, undergoing change, or is still being planned, the tool can help determine the conditions of a place in multiple categories.

This tool helped to gain an understanding of the existing conditions and their quality within Shawfair.

Our team evaluated each category on three scales, Macro, Meso and Micro and averaged the scores for each.

My research focuses on the Macro-scale categories “natural space” and “play and recreation.”

Shawfair is generally undeveloped and is left with un-used acidic agricultural land which is becoming reclaimed by nature. Where there is natural space to enjoy it is not designed to encourage users to explore.

The biodiversity on site is fairly decent, previous coal mining sites are inhabited by a variety of species. Agricultural land has harmed flora species over time and this may require regeneration of land. Overall, the natural space exists but, is not being properly managed.

Play and recreation is nearly non-existent in Shawfair. The nearest recreational facilities are located in neighboring towns and the city of Edinburgh.

PLACE STANDARD TOOL Macro | Natural Space

Access to Green Space Access to Blue Space These spaces are more general areas to determine density & opportunities for access to nature. Opportunities include potential development, conservation & views.

Green Space Destination Blue Space Destination The key points are “destinations” that the Shawfair community will benefit from. They are popular natural/recreational places in the regional scope of the site, their success may inform decisions for creating successful outdoor space in Shawfair.

Shawfair Hill

PLACE STANDARD TOOL Macro | Play & Recreation

Historic Sites (castles, landmarks, significant sites)

Entertainment (theaters, museums, galleries, etc.)

Sports (community athletic facilities, swimming pools, golf courses, football fields, etc.)

Play Areas (major play area for children, arcades, amusement, etc.)

This map shows the density of recreation and play. There is clearly a lack of recreation in Shawfair.

FRAMING THE FUTURE CREATING A VISION

APPROACH CREATING A VISION FOR SHAWFAIR Sustainable design is inspired by the past, present and future to develop complex solutions for holistic wellbeing. Long-term solutions to issues facing our world’s future can be challenging and conflicting but, innovative design thinking starts to form solutions.

Worldwide, organizations have developed frameworks for sustainability that are used by individuals, communities and governments.

Sustainability exists in a large variety of sector, the built environment holds many answers as it is large, continuously expanding and in our control.

The approach for this project uses frameworks from the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and the Place Standard tool, a common assessment used in Scotland. Following these key tools will help to develop a wider vision for the new development proposal at Shawfair.

GROUP RESEARCH ON SENSE OF PLACE

COLLABORATIVELY CREATE A VISION

REFLECT INDIVIDUALLY

FORM DESIGN SOLUTIONS

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS KEY GOALS THAT ALIGN WITH WORLDWIDE TARGETS FOR SUSTAINABILITY After reviewing the 17 Sustainable Development Goals from the United Nations, we selected significant goals which align with the planning and development for Shawfair. All of the goals have value to contribute but, a select few will be the focus.

HEALTH & WELLBEING

• Access to local amenities which promote outdoor recreation breeds a healthy community. Studies show that outdoor recreation is good for mental and physical health.

• Natural space and recreation can create a close knit community which also contributes to personal wellbeing.

AFFORDABLE CLEAN ENERGY

• Access to local amenities which promote outdoor recreation breeds a healthy community. Studies show that outdoor recreation is good for mental and physical health.

UNITED NATIONS SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS WATER AND SANITATION

• Preservation & careful management of natural spaces, including water supplies, will ensure a healthy, clean source.

• It is a goal by 2030, implement integrated water resources management at all levels, including through transboundary cooperation as appropriate • By 2020, protect and restore waterrelated ecosystems, including mountains, forests, wetlands, rivers, aquifers and lakes

ECONOMIC GROWTH

• Natural space, play and recreation will require management, this can create jobs and stabilize economic growth.

• Eco tourism may be created at Shawfair for income by making it a destination.

CLIMATE ACTION

• The Paris Agreement (2015), aims to strengthen the global response to climate change by keeping a global temperature rise this century well below 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.

• Improve education, awareness-raising and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction and early warning

LIFE ON LAND

• Management of deforestation, use ethically sourced materials that have minimal environmental impact.

• Offsets by planting new forested areas • Prevent habitat loss from new developments • Shawair has a lot of agricultural land, we must manage potential pollutants to the soil in order to preserve healthy natural spaces.

SUSTAINABLE CITIES

• Protect the world’s cultural and natural heritage • By 2030, reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including by paying special attention to air quality and municipal and other waste management • Support positive economic, social and environmental links between urban, peri-urban and rural areas by strengthening national and regional development planning

INNOVATION

• Potential to generate competitive economic forces which will increase job opportunity and therefor wealth.

• Create global connections • Lasting solutions to the world’s problems

REDUCED INEQUALITY

• Reducing inequalities and ensuring no one is left behind are integral the community well-being

A SHARED VISION DESIGNING A SUSTAINABLE TOWN CENTER FOR SHAWFAIR Analysis of the existing conditions in Shawfair will inform decisions and priorities for designing an inclusive town center that emphasized key sustainable features for regenerating the town.

Historically, Shawfair was a mining town and later became agricultural.

The town center is primarily set on the original mining site, it will be important to regenerate the land and bring it back to life in order to foster a thriving community.

Existing Agriculture

Hill

Forested

Regenerate green and blue space to design a nature scape integrated into the town center. These spaces should be productive and beneficial to restoring the natural environment.

Existing Settlement

Previous Coal Mining Site

Highlight the importance of the Shawfair train station to connect the town to places such as Edinburgh in only 15 minutes.

Shawfair Train Station

A SHARED VISION IDENTIFYING POTENTIAL DESIGN CHALLENGES Listing the potential design challenges that may arise or should be considered when designing the town center.

This process will later help us to identify the priorities to combat these rising challenges.

PRIMARY | SECONDARY

A SHARED VISION PRIORITIES

Identifying key priorities in the design of the town center will provide a framework for the team designing multiple components of the town.

PRIORITY

INCLUSIVITY

SUB PRIORITY

COMMUNITY IDENTITY

BELONGING

Health + Well-being Connection with nature, economic prosperity, safety, open spaces, education, services

LOCALITY

Network & Connectivity Connect to existing surroundings through walking and biking paths, central priority services.

Culture Connect to the surrounding culture, embody local identity.

Designing, building, managing, and populating places and spaces to generate a feeling of community and inclusivity, ensuring they work to benefit as many people as possible.

Adaptability Prioritises for the future - Spaces and places.

Climate Resilience Threat of natural disasters, biodiversity, low carbon emissions, green infrastructure.

TOWN CENTER MANIFESTO Shawfair is a cohesive community, where strong and positive relationships are built between people of all backgrounds and cultures. The people of Shawfair are well educated and supported by a thriving economy and an attractive, culturally rich, and healthy environment; where everyone is treated with respect and people are proud to belong. In Shawfair, local history and culture are celebrated and people feel involved and engaged in local activities with flexible spaces and places that are relevant, adaptable, accommodating, and welcoming. In the town center, walking and cycling are common means of travel, and facilities such as healthcare, education, and retail are close by with an abundance of green spaces supporting the health and well-being of local residents. Here, green architecture responds to a changing climate with the incorporation of green roofs and walls to cool the urban environment along with carbon-conscious innovations.

A SHARED VISION PRINCIPLES

Key driving principles to follow when designing the components that make up the Shawfair Town Center.

Community

Community Hubs Integrated throughout the Town Center for people to socialize

Climate Resilience

Connection Comfortable space to gather and promote community interaction through shared space

Energy & Food Source A diverse range of energy and food sources are provided, suitable for Shawfair to reduce mono-culture & dependency.

Health & Wellbeing

Facilities Civic and community facilities are easily accessible

Services Appropriate facilities and services are provided that meet the needs of the community

Adaptability

Flexible Public buildings are multi-use to host various activities

Determining principles by class vote.

Sustainable Strategy Integrates into the town, energy production & water catchment.

Network & Connectivity

Pedestrians The town center prioritizes pedestrians and limits car access

Existing Connections provided to existing and neighboring communities and infrastructure.

Culture

Phasing The design addresses phasing and how it may change over time, be reassessed to meet community needs.

Culture Facilities Included throughout, museums, protected sites and heritage.

Culture Connections Scottish culture is emphasized through design, providing cultural space

Yes / Almost / No A system to check if designs meet the principles.

A SHARED VISION DESIGN INTENT

The site has potential to be transformed into a sustainable town center that provides a dynamic local identity, a sense of place and connections.

Program

Multi-use Spaces Public open spaces are provided throughout the town center for a variety of functions and events.

Pathways A series of ground and raised paths will link the town center, provide helpful way-finding, moments of rest and breakout spaces to gather.

Recreation The town center will foster an active community with activities for everyone.

Markets Markets will sell local goods and will adapt with the seasons to offer specialized products.

Parks Parks will provide open green space for recreational activity and space between the built environment to connect to the ground.

Remediation & Regeneration Regenerate the land from the previously coal mined site and increase biodiversity with urban reforestation from that lost to agricultural sprawl.

Carbon Capture Carbon capture and storage will be integrated to the infrastructure to minimize the town center’s ecological footprints.

Renewables Renewable energy and water catchment infrastructure will be located centrally.

Biomimicry Design solutions will be inspired by nature first. Biomimicry will influence circularity, sustainability, regenerative design

Landscape Green-space will be maximized to promote healthy activities in the community.

Community An inclusive environment and a variety of public activities will foster a positive community.

History Honoring the history of Shawfair from coal mining to agriculture.

Education The town center will embody sustainable principles and workshop opportunities will promote sustainable habits in the community.

Economy Currently, Shawfair’s economy is largely based on agriculture and micro-businesses. This can be capitalized upon by promoting agro-tourism and small businesses.

Wellbeing The town center will prioritize community wellness through activities, supportive outlets and more.

Green & Blue Infrastructure

Heritage & Culture

TOWN CENTER DEVELOPMENT CONCEPT Developing a Concept based on Shawfair’s history.

How can we celebrate the mining history in Shawfair?

Shawfair’s name is taken from a 19th century farmstead.

The farmhouse stands to this day, nestled on a northern ridge, overlooking the site.

Headstocks have become a symbol for coal mining communities and coal production.

Headstocks were needed to exploit deep coal seams, they are very much a product of the industrial revolution.

They are now a powerful symbol in historic mining settlements, they represent strength and innovation.

TRANSFORMING CONCEPT INTO MASTER PLAN.

Shawfair 19th Century farmstead still stands today.

TOWN CENTER DEVELOPMENT INITIAL PLANNING

Productive Green & Blue Space Infrastructure aims to regenerate the land and use resources such as water catchment.

Pedestrian are the priority Cars are secondary, they will remain on exterior of the town center.

Raised Path A raised pathway will connect key activation points throughout the city, provide and outlet for wellbeing and convenient walking to the town center.

Access by Train Easy access from the central train line will connect residents to nearby cities and towns, such as Edinburgh in just 15 minutes.

Key Design Areas Raised Pathway Activation Urban landscape & Open space Multi-use outdoor space Recreation Center

N

Multi-use commercial

PROPOSAL & CONCEPT

DESIGN PROPOSAL

PROJECT DESCRIPTION A proposal for the new settlement in Shawfair, UK, located outside of Edinburgh, will develop solutions for a new and inventive peri-urban sustainable settlement. This project evaluates how geography can shape human settlement. Urban sprawl is happening in many cities around the world and it is causing long-term environmental impact. Shawfair is a new development that aims to do things differently, by shifting the view from Urban Sprawl to Natural Sprawl, this settlements can work with the environment for a sustainable future. The landscape will form the built environment with key indicators such as flood planes, habitats and existing infrastructure.

The community network will create unique experiences between human and nature on a city, local and personal scale. This project creates a recreational network that the community can grow around. Urban Acupuncture is the primary method used in designing key intervention points that will provide community involvement, identity and activity in Shawfair.

The goal is to foster a symbiotic relationship between human and nature, equity is a key design driver on a social and environmental scale to ensure equal access and opportunity for both residents and nature to flourish. Creating a sense of place with a strong community identity will create pride in the new settlement, therefor people will care more for Shawfair, encouraging investment in the long-term success of the settlement.

A variety of intervention points will knit the community together, preventing gaps of spacial poverty to form overtime. These points will be used by locals, organizations and tourists, they will focus on human, environment and innovation to showcase the principals of Shawfair. The design will be flexible and adaptable to grow with the settlement.

DESIGN PROPOSAL FOSTERING AN ACTIVE, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY THROUGH URBAN ACUPUNCTURE. DESIGNING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PEOPLE AND NATURE FOR LONG-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING.

ISSUE

HUMAN

The current state of the Shawfair settlement is sparse and sporadic. A proposed new development for the site will take a great deal of time to complete; therefore, a phased development will allow the town to grow steadily and be reassessed based on how people use space. New developments have the challenge to predict how spaces will be used before they are built. Traditionally, a new town plan would be zoned in specific categories but, this approach is at risk of deficiencies and spacial poverty within the urban fabric. Housing is often the heart of a development because it is a necessity and relatively predicable but, community engagement is often an after thought because difficult to assess what people will want/need and it is thought to be a costly investment. Designing and building community hubs can have a high initial start-up cost and reoccurring management expenses, encouraging small-scale interventions will be more cost efficient and adaptable overtime. Multiple small-scale interventions can connect a community on a larger scale by forming a network.

RESOLUTION

Wellbeing • Activity • Community • Inclusivty • Connection The design should foster an inclusive and active environment where the Shawfair community may thrive. Wellbeing with be a key driving factor in the design to create desirable recreational outlets for individuals and the community as a whole.

People will be physically connected through the community network and empathetic experiences will connect them to nature.

ENVIRONMENT Biodiversity • Regeneration • Conservation • Inspiration • Policy

If urban acupuncture is integrated into the town fabric from the start, then a strong foundation will allow the community to develop and grow from small design interventions. When points of activity are designed collectively, this forms a recreational district which encourages dense use by occupants at the risk of deficiencies developing elsewhere but, if these key activity points are dispersed throughout a town, they can act as pin points for linking the community together through an active network of key destinations. Urban acupuncture aims to reclaim land to the public and emphasizes the importance of community development. Small design interventions will simultaneously promote activity, connectivity and space to pause among an urban settlement where people will be reconnected with nature.

Strategic placement of each key design area will begin to form a network of connections, this will root Shawfair and allow ease for future growth.

Designing a town that is rooted to grow.

PRIORITIES

Consolidation leads to isolation.

This is a case where a divide will benefit the space in between, the town will begin to shape from key design areas.

The development on a new sustainable community in Shawfair will promote biodiversity and regeneration to mitigate the harmful impact of the previous coal mining site and the degraded land from agricultural use. It will be important to follow local guidance and policy.

The environment will be the inspiration driving the design, the natural and built environment should seamlessly collide.

INNOVATION Adaptability • Flexibility • Productive Technology • Materiality Innovation will be the the key stone of Shawfair. By following current and up-coming sustainable practices this new development with be the hallmark of community wellbeing and connectivity. Each material, method and system will be selected intentionally selected for a purpose.

Adaptability and flexibility will allow Shawfair to grow without unforeseen consequences.

WHAT IS URBAN ACUPUNCTURE? Urban acupuncture is a theory coined by Barcelonan architect and urbanist Manuel de Sola Morales and it has recently been developed by Finnish architect, Marco Casagrande.

This theory is inspired by Chinese medicinal acupuncture, it is believed that a small point can stimulate a larger area of networks. When applied to the design of towns and cities like Shawfair, it can stimulate a thriving community with minimal interventions to achieve the maximum effect.

Manuel de Sola Morales believed “the essence of urbanity lies in the balance of urban mixity and density, between building and activity.”

His work evaluates the positive existing conditions of a site and the potential it has to become better. Before acting with design proposals “the skin of the city has to be observed with the attention of a detective who scrutinizes the tinniest clues in its wrinkles and their apparent lack of connection,” Sola Morales says that after this has been undertaken, intervention may begin with careful consideration, adding, removing, modifying or the restructuring.

Conceptual demonstration of how small key design interventions can effect a larger area in Shawfair.

DESIGN CONCEPT SYMBOLISM The mining industry is what sparked the settlement of Shawfair, UK, it brought wealth and subsequently schools, libraries, museums and more industry to the surrounding area that has shaped the Shawfair we know today.

Mining heritage is deeply rooted in towns until this day. The relationship between the miner and the canary is a unique one that documents a time when humans were assisted and protected by nature. By exploring a variety of symbols derived from the mining industry, key themes are identified to inform an immersively empathetic experience. It is now time for the roles to reverse, humans must protect nature and be inspired by it.

Coal Mining Site

Headstock

Miner

Miner Cap

Canary

Cage

Coal mining has a very negative connotations, this design does not aim to condone the harm that mining has done to our earth. Without coal mining, our society would have never achieved what we have today largely from the industrial revolution.

Headstocks have become a symbol for coal mining communities and coal production. They were needed to exploit deep coal seams, they are very much a product of the industrial revolution. They are now a powerful symbol in historic mining settlements, they represent strength.

The job of a miner is one that requires a great deal of sacrifice for what their efforts have made possible today.

The cap is a significant mining tool which guided the miner by lighting their path through the darkness. It also symbolizes protection from the dangers of the mining environment.

Early coal miners used canaries to detect poisonous gases underground to give workers a chance of survival.

Their heightened senses allowed them to be effected by the gas first. Miners developed relationships with their canaries and treated them as pets.

A later version of the canary cage was developed with an oxygen tank to revive the canary because after detecting gas it would become ill or die, the oxygen would assist it back to health.

This is evidence that the miners cared for the canaries.

Heritage

Innovate

Offering

Guidance

Comfort

Revive

DESIGNING A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMAN AND NATURE TO RECONCILE OUR HARMFUL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.

DESIGN CONCEPT ROOTED IN THE PAST AND FUTURE Shawfair is a future-forward development that has a rich heritage that should be highlighted for the progress that has been made from then to now.

Time is represented in the physical layering at Shawfair. The land has many scars left from the mining heritage and degraded soil from agriculture, it is time to bring it back to life by regenerating the community and the landscape in order to promote a prosperous future.

Future

A prosperous environment, a symbiotic relationship between human and nature

Now

Regenerating a community, the new Shawfair

Agricultural industry that continued to support Shawfair after the decline of coal mining

Then

The mining heritage that sparked the settlement of Shawfair

COLLABORATIVE FRAMEWORK THE COMMUNITY NETWORK Based on a greening first methodology for green and blue urban landscape that will inform an intentional public transport link to key recreational concept pavilions. This concept aims to promote wellbeing for human and nature alike.

1

Green & Blue Infrastructure shape the town center

Revive Encouraging active play for all users

2

Points of activation encourage community involvement

Guidance Educational experience on sustainability

3

A network forms, linking recreation, nature and a town together

The community network aims to regenerate Shawfair socially and environmentally.

Shawfair once served as a mining community, tightly knit as a small settlement which later grew and the effects of large mining harmed the environment long-term.

Comfort The feeling of belonging, community support and individual growth.

Heritage Explore the legacy of Shawfair from coal mining to agriculture

Innovate Demonstrate sustainable technology that will pave the future.

Offering Connect people to the environment by gifting back to nature.

COLLABORATIVE FRAMEWORK SHAWFAIR, WHERE NATURE & URBANISM CO-EXIST

GROWING THE COMMUNITY NETWORK The Community Network will be shaped by key themes including well-being, recreation, biodiversity and regeneration.

The network will create a sense of pride that will stem from a strong community identity defined by heritage and sustainable innovation.

GROUNDED

MACRO | A greening first method will implement a strategy to design green and blue infrastructure that will shape the built environment by prioritizing natural space.

SEEDED

MICRO | Recreational activities will be planted throughout the landscape and built environment to connect people to significant activities throughout the network.

These seeds may blossom over time and be expanded throughout the urban network.

ROOTED

MESO | An intentional path will connect the community by encouraging activity and exploration throughout the town. The path will root the community as a consistent focal point for active engagement in nature and with people.

COLLABORATIVE FRAMEWORK DRIVEN BY POLICY The project will be driven by relative local and national policies and initiative. This will help keep the project goals on track with sustainability at the core.

UN SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT GOALS

POLLINATOR STRATEGY FOR SCOTLAND

The United Nations goals provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet, now and into the future. The goals cover a wide range of areas, our project will focus on...

2017 - 2027 - Pollinators are an integral part of our biodiversity. If we lose the pollination, we risk damaging not only flora and fauna but agricultural, our economy and our well-being.

• 1. No Poverty • 3. Good Health and Well-being • 9. Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure •10. Reduced Inequalities • 11. Sustainable Cities and Communities • 12. Responsible Consumption and Production • 13. Climate Action • 15. Life on Land

Objectives • Reverse the decline of native pollinators • Improve our understanding of pollinators • Manage the commercial use of pollinators • Raise awareness and encourage action • Monitor pollinators and reassess

SCOTLAND’S BIODIVERSITY - ROUTE MAP TO 2020

MIDLOTHIAN LOCAL BIODIVERSITY ACTION PLAN

The route map sets out the major steps needed to improve the state of nature in Scotland.

Midlothian’s landscape is characterized by upland areas, upland fringes, lowland river valleys and lowland hills and ridges. This landscape supports a diverse range of Habitats and species

Aims • Protect and restore biodiversity on land and in our seas to support healthy ecosystems • Connect people with the natural world • Involve the community more in decision making • Contributing to sustainable economic growth.

Priorities • Pollinators •Homes for Wildlife • Rivers, Streams and Ponds • Invasive nonnative species • People and Nature • Protected Sites and Species

COLLABORATIVE FRAMEWORK CASE STUDY Architects: TOPIO7 Year: 2020 Location: Macedonia, Greece

Topio7’s Competition-Winning Eco-Corridor to Transform Greek Coal Mines

Topio7’s proposal was developed along three thematic axes: ecological enhancement, the water net, and sensitive spatial organization.

The design began by recognizing transitions already established within the landscape between open and closed spaces planting dense areas.

Areas of urban acupuncture will create will promote dense use by the public and encourage community involvement.

Eco-corridors are expanded across former coal mines in the Western Macedonia region.

We will be working with the innate and natural area of Shawfair to rejuvenate its natural features.

Through the work of the natural landscape we plan to create green and water corridors.

By providing a connection to the integrated activity points of the site, people will become participants of the area and the landscape.

The introduction of eco-corridors and growth enhance for the opportunity for human interaction with nature.

These transitions between open and closed spaces created a ground for public-orientated ecocorridors. These spaces then varied between public and private identities.

The design emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for the community to redevelop the site while staying in touch with the natural environment.

Among these spaces is an amphitheater that is incorporated within the landscape. As well as an athletic park for recreation and leisure.

Areas of urban acupuncture will create will promote dense use by the public and encourage community involvement.

There is also open space for a ‘central meadow’ clearing which provides an areas for cultural events and markets,

COLLABORATIVE FRAMEWORK TOWN CENTER PLAN VISION The town center is designed to optimize walking and cycling as primary forms of transit with automobile traffic limited to the perimeter. The plan outlines the general massing of the built environment for context the focus design areas in the community network.

PRECEDENT

DESIGN PRECEDENT URBAN ACUPUNCTURE ROOT BENCH

THE FLOATING ISLAND

JIN WELLBEING COUNTY

Architects Yong Ju Lee Project Root Bench - Public Space Year 2018 - South Korea

Architects OBBA & Dertien12oup Project The Floating Island Year 2018 - Belgium

Architects Openbox Architects Project Wellbeing through urban greening Year 2016 - 18 - Bangkok

This design provides a focal gathering space within a larger park

Blur the rigid boundary of the canal and guide people to the waterside.

Creating a harmonious ecosystem within a city.

People can rest while sitting and leaning on its different heights and surfaces. The sprawling shape creates spacial connectivity. The design is derived from reaction-diffusion system.”This mathematical model describes the change in space & time of the concentration of chemical substances: local chemical reactions in which the substances are transformed, and diffusion which causes the substances to spread out over a surface in space.”

Built in Belgium on the Brugee UNESCO world heritage site canal provides a place where visitors can walk, rest, reflect, and enjoy on the water, not just as a borrowed scenery. This project extends the walking space and provides a break away area for people to stop and enjoy. The design promotes activity and play for all ages.

Ecologically sustainable design has been integrated into every element in the project design.

Water management and rainwater catchment.

Encourage retirees to go out and have an active social life. Harmony with nature will surely enhance people’s physical and mental health. This project designs key interaction areas among a larger network to promote activity.

DESIGN PRECEDENT BIO-BASED DESIGN GRASS AMPHITHEATER

HY-FI

PRIMITIVE HUT

Architects Studio 31 Project Grass Amphitheater Location Suffolk Coastline

Architects David Benjamin - The Living Project Mushroom-Brick Tower Year 2014 - New York

Architects CODA Project Root Bench - Public Space Year 2018 - South Korea

“Create something fun and inspiring for the very creative and life loving family.”

Use of organic, biodegradable bricks consisting of farm waste and a culture of fungus.

“Questions architecture’s relationship with time through an exploration of growth & decomposition.”

This is a residential project comprised of a series of concentric circles which provided seating for 40 to 50 guests. The stepped forms seamlessly dispersed out into the rest of the garden, giving the sense of an organic land form which could be used for a variety of activities.

Mushroom-Brick Tower At MoMA’s PS1 Courtyard is made of mycelium and compost. The bricks are grown, The temporary structure provides shade and seating during a festival. Once the structure is removed, the mushroom bricks will be composted, returning them to the carbon cycle.

Through its decay it nourishes the trees and plants which will replace the geometric form with a new living form. Primitive Hut is influenced by the frontispiece for Laugier’s essay on architecture, which depicts the original shelter as a hybrid between nature and architecture. This is a modular design that uses no glue and minimizes material.

DESIGN PRECEDENT ECOLOGY A CELEBRATION OF ECOLOGY

FIREPLACE PAVILION

GREEN CLOUD

Architects Grimshaw, Foster + Partners & BIG Project Sustainability Pavilion Year 2020 Dubai Expo

Architects gruppa2020 Project Entry for musical festival SIGNAL Year 2020 - Russia

Architects Zhubo designs Project Modular Urban Greening Year 2018 - China

The pavilion “will be a celebration of ecology, sustainable technologies and design.”

“Fireplace” serves as both a storage unit of firewood & as a place for guests to keep warm.

Giving green space back to a building that was swallowed by urban build-up

This will provide an entertaining and educational experience with performance spaces exploring how innovation in science and design can help us protect the planet. Innovative systems such as “energy trees” track and harvest the sun and water. The landscape is focused on local flora, shaded enclaves and walkways.

The pavilion was constructed for an outdoor music and art festival in response for the need of shelter from the elements in Russia. The pavilion appearance transforms as the firewood is used. The structure is reinforced with steel rebars.

The modular system has a low-technique required renovation method which can be easily transferred.

It is able to be built by residents and aims to inspire neighbors to do the same to create a network of an urban mountain. It incorporates growing space and rain water management. This project provides retreat and community gathering space.

MATERIAL RESEARCH HISTORY Largely based on the concept and intention to reconcile the relationship between human and nature as a response to the harmful practice of coal mining which historically took place on site in Shawfair.

COAL COMBUSTION PRODUCTS (CCPS)

CCPS

CO2 NEGATIVE & CARBON CAPTURE TECHNOLOGY

Photocatalytic Cement

Carbon negative thermoplastic

Greening

Ferrock

COMBAT CO2

Pavegen

Made from sulfur dioxide scrubbing processes, it can be used in construction, reclamation, infrastructure rehabilitation, manufacturing and agricultural applications. Composed from sulfur dioxide scrubbing byproducts such as, fly ash, bottom ash, boiler slag and fluidized-bed combustor ash.

Materials can be used to filter air pollutants such at CO2, they will absorb them or convert them into harmless compounds. ___________________________________________ Photocatalytic Cement

Pavegen An attractive paver for outdoor use.

Creates a sustainable energy source with kinetic energy from humans, walking, running or cycling on it.

Earth Works & Greening

Replaces cement.

Meets or exceeds performance specifications such as LEED Low cost, low embodied energy and raw construction material.

Fly Ash Benefits; Reduces CO2 emission, strong, decreases permeability, increase durability, reduces heat of hydration, reduces efflorescence.

Manufacturer; ProAsh®

Carbon negative thermoplastics - Made of Air products

Implementation of this product claims to; - make cities smart and get people excited about sustainability - energise transport hubs and make them more than a place to pass-through - create destinations that excite, educate and entice - transform retail into an experience that inspires - enrich education through gamification & interactive learning experiences

Ferrock - suitable alternative to concrete. Made up of 95% recycled materials by combining steel dust waste with silica.

MATERIAL RESEARCH LOCALITY When possible, the materials should be sourced from site or nearby to reduce embodied energy and utilize what is already there.

EARTH

Earth Works

3D Printed Soil

RE-PURPOSE

Rammed Earth

Cob

Excavated Stone Gabion

Local Cut Wood

LOCAL STONE & TIMBER

Recycled Glass

Materials derived from the ground and other natural compounds.

Materiality should be simple. ___________________________________________

Waste generated locally of on site can be re-purposed as a building material. ___________________________________________

Earth Works

Excavated Stone and Wood Gabions - the site will have various developments taking place in the initial phases. The soil will have un-wanted stone that can be re purposed as a building material.

Gabions are containers filled with earth, stones, or other materials.

3D Printed Soil Rammed Earth Cob

Recycled Glass Gravel

CLT

Douglas Fir

Flagstone

Locally & Sustainably sourced in Scotland. ___________________________________________ Douglas Fir Caithness Flagstone CLT - Cross Laminated Timber - produced from dried, quick growing spruce & fir boards, stacked at right angles and glued together under pressure bonding system

MATERIAL RESEARCH BIO-BASED Other innovative materials that are bio-based and sustainable.

MYCELIUM

BIOSTEEL BIOPOLYMER

Mycelium

Biosteel Biopolymer

A vegetative tissue of the fungus. It can be found in abundance on the planet as it easily colonises soil and many other substrates, practically acting like a glue that binds together different natural particles.

In the world of construction and object making, it seems that mycelium technology has a lot to offer. It mainly consists of a process where an organic substrate is inoculated and gradually digested by the mycelium, forming a solid mass. Later in this process, the biological activity of the mycelium is terminated and the final material is produced.

BioSteel was a trademark name for a high-strength fiber-based material made of the recombinant spider silk-like protein extracted from the milk of transgenic goats, made by Montreal-based company Nexia Biotechnologies, and later by the Randy Lewis lab of the University of Wyoming and Utah State University. ___________________________________________ Properties; flexible, lightweight, Highperformance and Premium skin feel, very strong, biodegradable

NATURE AS A 3D PRINTER

Bees

Silk Worms

Bees - Dewar’s 3D printed bottle by enclosing bees to form the structure.

Silk Worms - Designed by Neri Oxman at MIT, a base structure was built as “a printer” for the silk worms to follow the form by creating a secondary structure. The “CNSilk” method.

PLASTICS

Recycled Panels & Decking

Potato Bioplastic

Bioplastics - are biodigradable Recycled Plastics will last longer and may be re-used after life

METHODOLOGY

METHODOLOGY PRECEDENT SPATIAL INEQUALITY AND URBAN POVERTY TRAPS Ursula Grant - Overseas Development Institute - Chronic Poverty Research Centre This paper argues that spatial inequality in urban areas is based on more than physical proximity to services, infrastructure and jobs. It is linked to the long-term development of distinct areas of urban deprivation that undermines the benefits of physical proximity that urban residence may offer. Social analysis and micro-level analysis are critical in the urban context to evaluate where the problem areas occur. A framework was designed to combine geography and social dynamics to show how spatial poverty traps exist in urban areas.

The paper has a heavy focus on developing countries but, this framework can be applied in any urban context. The effects of poverty traps are mitigated by an overarching framework that links geography, social relations and chronic poverty.

IN CONTEXT WITH THE SHAWFAIR DEVELOPMENT Rapid urbanization can cause spatial poverty to occur, this can be resolved by slow growth and phased development at Shawfair. My approach will focus on designing a simple framework to predict where spacial poverty traps may form overtime, how small design interventions can activate these spaces and how they may be adapted over time to respond to potential issues. The method of urban acupuncture will prevent spacial poverty by diversifying and expanding the reach of recreational outlets throughout the community.

Evaluating physical proximity is the first step but, the underlying focus is inclusion/exclusion caused by power relationships and social accessibility.

“Cities and towns are, by their very nature, always in a state of flux (new people, new trade opportunities, new forms of power and opportunities).

These dynamics lead to tensions and violence, often linked to control over space and the changing nature of vulnerability. Urban poverty is characterized by weak labor market positions (Grant, 2008), health vulnerabilities (Begum and Sen, 2005) and physical insecurity (Henry-Lee, 2005; Perlman, 2003) and can be linked to how well urban populations adapt to change or cope with transitions (Mitlin, 2005).”

- Chronic Poverty Research Centre

THE FRAMEWORK The framework includes 4 main spacial poverty traps and the elements to identify them. The conditions at Shawfair most closely relate to “weakly integrated regions”

Spacial Poverty Trap Description

Weakly integrated regions (poorly linked and economically disadvantaged)

Key elements of the ‘poverty concentration problem’ Ecological Characteristics

Poor Infrastructure

Weak Institutions (including markets)

Political Isolation

Various – no Can include clear patterns. high and low potential agrarian environments, poorly serviced and connected peri-urban and urban areas.

Poor opportunities to commute or migrate; limited information on opportunities and rights.

Adversely incorporated into markets through exploitative or uncompetitive economic relationships: markets are fragmented and function weakly.

Politically marginal, unstable, liable to political fragmentation and conflict.

Poor representation in political assemblies.

Definition

STEPS

1 Analyze multiple deprivations.

Poverty rates • Demographics • Economic Background • Mental Health • Disability

2 Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

Identify reasons that can cause Shawfair to have poverty traps in order to prevent their future occurrence.

3 Define what it means to have a thriving community.

4 Design small-scale interventions to foster an inclusive community.

This should focus on physical proximity, social accessibility and ability for community involvement. Lack of opportunity for the public voice to be heard can cause poverty traps, adaptable structures will allow changes over time to respond to the community needs.

METHODOLOGY PRECEDENT WHAT IS SPATIAL POVERTY? HOW CAN WE AVOID IT? Spatial poverty tends to occur where “geographical capital” is low. Georgaphical capital includes the physical, natural, social, political and human capital of an area. This area may be disconnected from a larger network which causes exclusion and lack of positive relationships.

Weakly integrated Shawfair has yet to reach its highest potential. The current state is abandoned coal mines and minimally used agricultural land with little economic benefit. Shawfair has important connections to Edinburgh and Dalkeith but, it is poorly connected to other areas and does not serve as a destination of its own identity.

CASE STUDY

KEY TAKE-AWAYS

UN Habitat - World Cities Report 2020: The Value of Sustainable Urbanization

“Sustainable urbanization can enhance the social value of cities by ending poverty, promoting equity and improving quality of life for all.”

- World Cities Report 2020

“Urbanization can be leveraged for the fight against poverty, inequality, unemployment, climate change, and other pressing global challenges.”

- Maimunah Mohd Sharif, UN-Habitat Executive Director.

The report suggests the value of sustainable urbanization from an economic, social, and environmental perspective, findings of the report include; 1

Cities generate economic value when they function efficiently.

2 Environmental value is generated by compact cities with walkable urban centers that employ nature-based solutions that can reduce their overall carbon footprint.

3 Urban areas can reduce social inequalities when they provide affordable housing for low-income residents and create safe spaces for marginalized groups.

4 When cities are well-planned and managed, they also create intangible value by instilling civic pride in urban identity and serving as vibrant centers of cultural traditions.

5 The right to the city, which underpins the social value of urbanization, means that all people should have equal opportunities and access to urban resources, services and goods.

6 Calling on national governments to empower local entities to raise revenue, regulate land use, plan for urban growth, limit urban sprawl, and relieve overcrowded housing, the report encourages the collection of revenue to improve municipal services and public spaces.

Design for equity over equality to foster an holistic, inclusive community that will prosper long-term.

EQUALITY Everyone is treated the same regardless of need

EQUITY When inequality is addressed and equity serves as a foundation for community development, the small differences will remove systemic barriers for long-term equality.

People are treated differently dependent on need

SOLUTIONS | POINTS OF ACTION Identify & address root causes of exclusion and inequity.

Community decision making will drive a long-term phased design approach that will reassess and adapt to social needs.

Public access will ensure equal access to all.

Prevent socio-spacial exclusion by evenly distributing benefits.

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 1 ANALYZE MULTIPLE DEPRIVATIONS Analyze local deprivations.

Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2020 Deprived is defined as a low income population or having few resources or opportunities. SIMD evaluates deprivations based on education, health, access to services, crime and housing.

Shawfair is currently undeveloped and primarily agricultural, this makes it difficult to analyze the deprivations in the area. By looking at surrounding settlement with similar characteristics we can identify issues that can present in the future so that we may address them, and prevent them the best we can in the development phase. The percentage of people who live near a derelict site in the Midlothian is 19.2%, more than double fro Edinburgh city at 7.5%.

Craigmillar

People living in New Town, Edinburgh are estimated to live up to 21 years longer than those in Niddrie. This area near Craigmillar has low income and high unemployment rates largely to to a lack of education and access to services.

More than 25% of homes are socially rented in Craigmillar.

Gilmerton

Described as large portion of people living within 500 meters of a derelict site. In 1961 the 17th century Gilmerton Mining Pit closed and was followed by limestone quarrying in the 19th century. It was declared a conservation area in 1977, the village is now surrounded by public and private housing. It has social issues derived from poor opportunity, accessibility and subsidence issues causes by underground working.

EDINBURGH

MUSSELBURGH NIDDRIE CRAIGMILLAR

SHAWFAIR

GILMERTON

DANDERHALL

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 1 ANALYZE MULTIPLE DEPRIVATIONS (SOCIAL) Analyze local deprivations.

Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

Multiple deprivations are not solely focused on economic wealth and poverty. Communities may become deprived regardless of economic status based on proximity to local amenities and recreation. Social deprivation has an impact on an individual’s quality of life and can be caused by an isolated area or a settlement with little community interaction. Public spaces have high social value which will foster an inclusive, equitable community.

If we look at the existing conditions in towns neighboring Shawfair, we can see how access to community space can effect daily life habits.

(Areas based on Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2020)

DALKEITH

CRAIGMILLAR

SHAWFAIR

Categorized as a lesser deprived area, the 10% least deprived.

Categorized as a lesser deprived area, the 10% least deprived.

Current index for multiple deprivations does not reflect the future Shawfair.

The new settlement will diversify.

Dalkeith is a generally wealthy area and it is evident in the beautifully maintained country parks and leisure clubs. It is lacking informal public spaces for daily community use. Suburban areas such as this often neglect the value of public space due to the amount of detached homes but, this can bring great value to the creation of identity and cultural diversity. In the current state, Dalkeith is lacking accessibility to areas for diverse groups to gather.

Amenities & Recreation Leisure Clubs - this is valuable for wellness but, it is not accessible to all since there is a fee to attend.

Forth Douglas Adventure park - a great recreational outlet for kids and adults but, the scale of the park does not promote daily use.

Dalkeith Country Park - similarly, the scale is not accessible for daily, local use. It is not a casual experience.

King’s Park - a well maintained sporting park, no space for other activities.

Craigmillar residents are relatively low-income earners.

The settlement is lacking recreational activities and space to encourage residents to get outside. Of the few public spaces that are in Craigmillar, they are not centrally located and most are maintained by neighboring towns. Craigmillar has a big problem with vandalism and anti-social behavior, more activities for residents can be a solution to these issues. The lack of public space and community activity only hinders the local identity and pride.

A large number of residents are in council housing and more affordable housing is being built, people need space to gather and enjoy the outdoors. Social engagement has the power to make lasting impact.

Amenities & Recreation Craigmillar Castle - historic monument with small park area, this is not a place that a local would visit daily.

Jack Kane Sports Center - an open field, suffers from vandalism, lacking organized activities.

The proposal for urban acupuncture in the development of the Shawfair community will create local attachments, causing people to care more for the settlement. People are able to explore their culture and identity freely with versatile public spaces.

Public spaces will create opportunities for children and young people to meet. Public access to resources and activities will encourage people to join the vibrant community.

Proposed Influence from Amenities & Recreation Cultural exhibits - reflect on the history and culture of Shawfair to celebrate the past, present and future.

Education - encourage the community to interact and learn about the land in which they reside.

Versatile Gathering Space - unique spaces for people of all ages to meet, each with a purpose but, flexible to individual needs.

Pocket Parks - spread throughout the Town Center and neighborhoods for equal access among residents.

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 1 ANALYZE MULTIPLE DEPRIVATIONS (SOCIAL) Analyze local deprivations.

Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

Analysis of Craigmillar efforts to reconcile.

Craigmillar has made efforts to improve the area’s existing deprivations. The Craigmillar urban design framework outlines the core principles for the development and rehabilitation of the town.

This is a prime example to analyze against Shawfair in order to prevent the occurrence of poverty stricken issues. Craigmillar is similarly adjacent to Edinburgh, the framework describes how the existing buildings and large vacant areas have opportunity for development.

CRAIGMILLAR The framework was developed with A+DS, they found that the underlying issues stem back to when Craigmillar was built after 1929 in response to Edinburgh’s severe problems of slum housing. The population was once 25,000 then continuously decreased as people moved away, the decline made schools, shops and business inviable.

The Craigmillar Urban Design Framework is a plan to redevelop the area over time by strengthening the links to Edinburgh City Center. Craigmillar has a goal to become its own district of Edinburgh.

The proposed plan for the development begins in small areas of housing then expands and connects areas overtime. This is a 15 year plan to strengthen a community and create a legacy for continuous growth. The framework explores models such as community foundations, regeneration trusts and community associations to achieve this.

This Planning Advice Note (PAN) 83 - gov.scot

Craigmillar Urban Design Framework & PARC Craigmillar Ltd Efforts to connect Craigmillar to Edinburgh City, create new jobs, more homes, leisure, office space and more.

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 2 ANALYZE THE PHYSICAL MICRO-LEVEL AT SHAWFAIR Analyze local deprivations.

Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

Analysis on the existing physical conditions at Shawfair suggest that the land is in desperate need of regeneration and integration with neighboring towns. Shawfair has seen little change in many years, a new development at this scale will take some time, it will be important to design public space to create a foundation for an inclusive community. Currently, much of the land is undeveloped, poorly used or privately owned with little to no public space for community interactions.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

Conveniently located near Edinburgh, about 6 miles to the center.

Train, 15 minutes to Edinburgh (lacking other direct connections)

Cycling, 35 minutes

Driving, 17 minutes While a strong relationship with Edinburgh is important, strengthened connections to neighboring settlements will have a bigger impact on Shawfair residents’ daily lives.

EXISTING BUILDINGS & SITE CONDITIONS

LAND COVER

CROP LAND

Original Farmstead Energy Center

SHAWFAIR

Under used agricultural land

SHAWFAIR

Mining slag

Potential heritage site

Wheat

Other

Grass

Barley

Urban

Non-crop

Major Infrastructure Train, Energy center, Rail yard

Improved grassland

Previous mining sites

Broadleaved woodland

Residential

Suburban

N

Acid grassland

Shawfair Train

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 3 DEFINE WHAT IT MEANS TO HAVE A THRIVING COMMUNITY Analyze local deprivations.

Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

THE PUBLIC’S OPINION - A SURVEY A thriving community may mean something different to each person. A public survey was conducted to reach a consensus of what people prioritize to deem their community “thriving.” This data will help to identify what a community needs to foster a positive and prosperous identity.

WHO WAS SURVEYED?

WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR COMMUNITY AS THRIVING?

DO YOU HAVE EASY ACCESS TO THINGS YOU NEED?

DO YOU BELIEVE YOUR COMMUNITY IS INCLUSIVE?

Age groups 20 - 25, 26 - 30, 31- 40, 41 - 50, 51 - 64, 65+ were surveyed to define what a thriving community means to them.

Individuals were digitally surveyed from Edinburgh City and the Midlothians.

YES

WHAT MAKES A THRIVING COMMUNITY IN YOUR OPINION? Spaces to socialize with the community, especially enjoying shared space such as nature paths and outdoor exercise.

Flourishing local economy with a variety of shops, cafes and recreation to encourage spending and neighborly relationships.

A place that feels like home to everyone, one that is safe and inclusive.

Driven by policy that promotes healthy lifestyles such as community gardening, share cars, green energy, environmental protection and mix-use town centers.

Support for a diverse population, like affordable housing in mixuse areas.

NO

YES

PRIORITIES

Recreational Activity Community Gathering Space Space to enjoy the outdoors Improved walk, run, cycle paths Space to Play Educational Recreation Environmental Protection Discourage use of cars More local economy Safety A sense of pride & belonging Government Policy

NO

YES

NO

A THRIVING COMMUNITY IS...

A PLACE THAT SUPPORTS DIVERSE CULTURE THROUGH SOCIAL RECREATION THAT PROMOTES HEALTHY LIFESTYLES. PEOPLE KNOW THEIR NEIGHBORS AND FEEL A STRONG SENSE OF IDENTITY AND BELONGING. A THRIVING COMMUNITY IS CONFIDENT AND PROUD.

DESIGN METHODOLOGY 4 DESIGN SMALL-SCALE INTERVETIONS TO FOSTER AN INCLUSIVE COMMUNITY Analyze the physical micro-level at Shawfair.

Analyze local deprivations.

The meaning of a thriving community.

Design for inclusive with small-scale interventions

The beginning phases of the design will locate the points of intervention and the intent of each. The interventions will be purposeful, active and promote harmony between human and nature. In practice, the public should be involved in the decision making process, these positions will be identified by previous data and research. There will be a long-term plan for community involvement to re-evaluate the interventions and adapt over time. Encouraging community involvement will create pride and inclusivity.

HERITAGE

REVIVE

COMFORT

Linking the legacy of Shawfair with an interactive timeline leading to what forms today and tomorrow.

A healthy community comes to life with active play for all ages.

A place to be imersed in nature with the option to journey individually or socially.

Explore

Legacy connections

Shaping tomorrow

The future

Relaxed play

Active play

Rest

Individual

Community

Harmony

OFFERING

GUIDANCE

INNOVATE

Reconnecting to nature, designing a community ritual and garden.

An informative local resource that will achieve the pinnacle for success in Shawfair.

A demonstration of how human intervention can accomplish positive change.

Grow

Form

Decompose

Enlighten

Compost

Recycle

Community Trade

Experience

Skills development

Discover

DESIGN DEVELOPMENT

INTRODUCING INTERVENTIONS POINTS OF INTERVENTION Key intervention points are purposefully selected based on the data collected for what people want in a thriving community and also location associated with adjacencies of surrounding areas and geographical form. Together, these interventions create significant social interactions.

HERITAGE

OFFERING

REVIVE

GUIDANCE

COMFORT

INNOVATE

MAPPING INTERVENTIONS OVERVIEW The nature of the infrastructure informs the placement of the key intervention points.

RESIDENTIAL

COMMERCIAL RETAIL

BUSINESS

SERVICES

RECREATION

INDUSTRIAL

MAPPING INTERVENTIONS MAPPING THE INFLUENCE The goal of urban acupuncture is to create maximum effect with minimal intervention, predicting the density of use based on type of activity and location will inform the potential and needs for each interervention point to support visitors and activities.

IDEATION OFFERING A community garden built by the citizens of Shawfair.

Many opportunities for citizen science educate residents on the value of the environment for nourishing ourselves.

We thank the land for what it gives us by returning it better than it was. Agriculture once sustained the community but, a lot of the land is now too acidic to grow on. Vertical, modular growing structures will be non invasive to the ground and will use composted soil from local waste.

USERS Individuals Enjoy the garden to connect with nature and community Families Parents may teach their kids how to garden. They can use the space for gathering.

Materials for this site are essential because the garden will be able to fully compost itself overtime, the site may be reconstructed elsewhere to nourish a new area in Shawfair.

Discover

Gather

Habitat

Community Organizations Gardening groups will form from the project and they will maintain the site.

Rest

Students Connect to local schools to educate youth on the importance of food and environment.

MATERIALITY

multi-use modular planter

Douglas Fir

Local timber

Mycelium

Cob

IDEATION COMFORT An immersive nature pavilion provides comfort to the visitors. This is a journey of discovery that can be taken individually for a sense of gentle hush or collectively for community growth. This is a multi-use space that transforms from a tranquil space during the day and a gathering space at night for performance. The pavilion will provide shelter and connect to the blue infrastructure to collect water. It will immerse the user into natural elements of earth, wind, fire and water.

Discover

Gather

Celebrate

USERS Individuals Visit for a retreat or solitude Families Visit as they are spending the day walking and need to take a break Community Organizations Host events and group meetings Performers The space may transform from calm to active simply by using the stage to host events.

MATERIALITY

Recycled Glass

Ferrock

Rammed Earth

Douglas Fir

IDEATION HERITAGE Located in the Shawfair town center, this intervention point celebrates the past, present and future. The people, events and foundation that has made Shawfair what it is today and what it will be tomorrow. The concept of “The Miner and the Canary” will be a key symbol in the design.

Visitors will be guided through a timeline that will lead them to a central pavilion that will provide shelter and gathering space for social interactions that will form the future. The pavilion will also provide bird habitats, modeled after traditional Scottish Dove Cotes.

Discover

Gather

Celebrate

Habitat

USERS Families This is a place for all ages to enjoy and explore.

Individuals People passing on the path will walk through the break in the pavilion.

Guests & Visitors Non-residents of Shawfair will visit as a main attraction symbolizing the heritage.

Heritage Organizations Groups of historians and heritage organizations will use the space.

Students They will have an educational experience.

MATERIALITY

Cob

Douglas Fir

Ferrock

On-site Stone

IDEATION GUIDANCE This will be a replicable community resource located in residential areas. It will promote healthy lifestyle choices with a recycling area, compost and small garden plots.

There will also be a community share point, where unwanted items can be re-homed.

Each community resource center will have a tree that they may nurture and watch grow as their community simultaneously flourishes.

Local neighborhood meetings may also take place here for the public voice to be heard in policy making.

Discover

Gather

Celebrate

Learn

USERS Resident Individuals They may visit to discard their recycling and compost or simply to enjoy the local garden.

Families An educational experience for all ages. This will influence eco-choices.

Community Organizations Host meetings on a local level.

MATERIALITY

Cob

CCPS

Corrugated soybean bio-plastic

Douglas Fir

IDEATION REVIVE A space that will activate the community with a sophisticated playground that will promote healthy lifestyle habits with activities for adults to workout, children to play and everyone to enjoy a vibrant place even if it is just to spectate.

Play

Gather

Rest

USERS Resident Individuals They may visit to actively engage in the space or it may be a more transient experience along their walk.

Children Children may play as a parent enjoys the workout area or rest space.

Small Groups Groups passing on the path may be intrigued to explore the space and veer off path.

MATERIALITY

Cob

On-site Stone

Salvaged Wood

Douglas Fir

IDEATION INNOVATE A transitional space that welcomes visitors and locals alike to Shawfair while displaying the capacity for innovation. The experience will be located along the path to the train station, it will be paved with “Pavegen” technology which collects kinetic energy from walking, running or cycling. This will symbolize the encouraged walking-centric city and show the true power that humans have to make impactful, positive change by creating green energy, simply at their foot step. At night, the space will be transformed into a lit pavilion which will also light the path for commuters returning home.

A raised platform will be a viewpoint to watch the trains, an activity that many people enjoy.

Discover

Play

Celebrate

USERS Commuters People using the train will cross over this transitional space.

Students Will learn the power of human energy and play to discover.

Visitors Guests who arrive by train must walk to the town center, they will pass through this space as a welcoming, foreshadowing experience for the sustainable innovation to come.

MATERIALITY

3D Print Soil

Pavegen

Douglas Fir

CCPS

DESIGN SOLUTION

THE COMMUNITY NETWORK PLAN URBAN ACUPUNCTURE IN SHAWFAIR

Key hubs for activity will connect the community with space for Shawfair to develop in-between.

Community well-being, equality and environmental sustainability is a priority in each design.

OFFERING

Build Your Own Modular Garden Plot

Encourage community skill and individuality to create a unique sense of place.

The Potting Shed

Modular structure with integrated rain harvesting for use in the garden.

The Bonfire

Featuring reclaimed rebar structure for wood storage and a three part compost system.

OFFERING REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE

COMPOST

The practice of regenerative agriculture refers to efforts to mitigate climate change by rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity. The regeneration of soil can reduce carbon and improve water cycles.

Compost has a variety of environmental benefits ranging from the removal of carbon dioxide from the air to promoting nutrient rich soil that creates healthier crops and increases biodiversity.

The key principle to regenerative agriculture is that it doesn’t harm land and it does improve it.

The community garden will use the 3 bin composting system which is most feasible for a relatively small-scale community garden.

Nutrient rich compost is a common and rather simple practice to regenerate soil.

SOIL IN SHAWFAIR

Materials are locally sourced Primarily indigenous wood and reclaimed steel rebar from construction waste.

As the community garden moves position annually it will regenerate the soil over time with compost.

1

A combination of ground and container plantings will be used to grow crops and herbs in the community garden. The container gardens are non-invasive to the land and their modularity makes them easy to move throughout the seasons.

Historically, Victory Gardens appeared at private residences and public parks during and around World Wars I & II. This was a common practice where people were growing almost 50% of their food supply in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and Germany. These gardens have people a feeling of empowerment by contributing to something with a reward of fresh produce. This idea can similarly be implemented as an empowering effort against climate change.

Bin 1 is filled with brown and green waste layers until it is full.

1 2 3 When it decomposes to half the amount is is transferred to Bin 2.

Once the matter in Bin 2 breaks down the finished compost is placed in Bin 3 and is ready to use in the garden.

LIFE-CYCLE

The soil in Shawfair is acidic due to the longterm use for agriculture, the land has been drained of nutrients.

VICTORY GARDENS

The Three Bin Composting Method The key to nutrient rich compost is balance between greens (nitrogen rich) and browns (carbon rich)

2 Assembly

Modular building elements are assembled, utilize community skills.

Repeat

3 Design & Build

Primary structures are assembled, including the enclosed workshop, fire pavilion and key planting areas.

The Offering Community Garden will be a temporary place for members of Shawfair to learn and grow. It will simultaneously nourish the land and the residents.

7 Return

At the point where the site is disassembled, elements such as Mycelium, compost and ground cover will stay to decompose and continuously nourish the soil.

With a modular approach to urban agriculture, the garden will be easily assembled and disassembled. The time of the life cycle may take two years to regenerate the plot of land.

4 Educate

5 Disassemble

When the site has been regenerated it will be relocated within Shawfair to begin the nourishment of a new area.

6

Create

Community members can expand the site by adding their own garden plot with modular building elements.

Citizen science workshops on how to garden and regenerate land

OFFERING

SECTION - RAIN GARDENS

PLAN - PHASED EXPANSION

Rain gardens located between the garden plots and the water will filter storm water run off before it enters the water infrastructure. The water run off will follow the slopes to a central point for drainage.

The modular approach to the community garden will allow it to expand overtime. A community member will be able to join the garden at will and build their own plot.

N

OFFERING MODULARITY A modular box planter made from locally sourced Douglas Fir. These may be constructed on-site by community members, encouraging skill and involvement to foster a sense of pride for place.

This system is used in multiple arrangements including a vertical growing system which is minimally invasive to the soil and may be changed periodically. The system is light weight and easy to assemble.

Second, it may be used to create the potting shed and other small structures for storage as a modular wall. The void will be filled with mycelium which has strong insulation qualities and is able to return back to earth after life.

THE POTTING SHED INTERIOR

VERTICAL PLANTING

MODULAR COMPONENT

MODULAR WALL

COMFORT

Experience Water

An immersive experience for visitors to appreciate nature with a rain chain wall simulating a waterfall.

Experience Air

A display that creates a feeling of lightness with sheer fabric panels and a swing for a sensational experience.

Gathering

A small earthwork amphitheater provides space for community gatherings and events.

COMFORT CONNECTION TO NATURE

MATERIALITY

People with a greater connection to nature are more likely to behave positively towards the environment, wildlife and habitats. This pavilion aims to comfort individuals by providing a free space for expression in unity with nature. Visitors are immersed in the elements; water, a rain wall simulates a waterfall; wind, a swing seated area beneath an open air exhibit of fabric panels; fire and earth, an earth work amphitheater with a bonfire for community gathering.

The pavilion is adjacently located to the town center and water infrastructure surrounded by rain gardens to prevent flooding during rainy seasons.

Local Stone

Cob

Douglas Fir

BY DAY & BY NIGHT The multi-use pavilion can adapt to user needs with retractable walls that may change the appearance and temperature by season.

Day

An individual may enjoy the space in solitude, with community yoga or other peaceful gatherings.

COMFORT PAVILLION

RAIN WALL

Night

The wall can close and open a small performance space and film projections.

HERITAGE

Space to Rest

Integrated seating will encourage community interaction and space to enjoy the outdoors.

Heritage Exhibit

A small exhibition experience that educated the community about how Shawfair came to be.

Bird Habitats

Green roofs and habitats will increase biodiversity. Inspired by traditional Dove Cotes throughout the United Kingdom.

The Timeline

An installation that represents the timeline of Shawfair.

People may interact with the whimsical display.

HERITAGE CREATING A COMMUNITY IDENTITY

MATERIALITY

The Heritage pavilion is located in the town center at a major intersection point, it will display interactive exhibits that celebrate Shawfair’s history and future. This central space will provide multi-use areas for community gathering.

An abstract installation will be commissioned by a local artist to illustrate Shawfair’s timeline. Dove cotes will be carved into the cob structure to provide habitats for wildlife and encourage citizen science, community members may explore the local flora and fauna.

Local and recycled materials.

Ferrock

Cob

Douglas Fir

EDUCATE & EXHIBIT A small public exhibit will display significant moments in the creation of the Shawfair we know today. The design intends to create a narrow, tunneling experience similar to mining. The exhibit will be simple and low maintenance with minimal risk for damaging the displays.

HERITAGE EXHIBIT OUTDOORS

EXHIBIT INTERIOR

GUIDANCE

Local Waste

Educate the community on how to properly recycle and compost with modular containers.

Community Share

A place t trade items or simply leave those you no longer need for a neighbor to use.

Community Pavilion

Modular structure with integrated rain harvesting for use in the garden. Similar to the Offering Potting Shed.

Garden Plot

Using the modular system as pllanting beds, a small amount of produce and herbs may be grown in neighborhoods,

GUIDANCE CREATING SUSTAINABLE HABITS A local waste management hub within individual neighborhoods. This modular concept will be tested in Shawfair’s first neighborhood development and will then be adapted and replicated throughout various neighborhoods as a valuable resource. A conveniently located hub such as this will educate the neighborhood and create sustainable, life-long habits for adults and children. The hub will feature waste and food recycling bins managed

by Shawfair Council in collaboration with other organizations. The trading center will be run by the neighborhood for trading of items at the donation shelves and ideas at the small workshop that may host neighborhood meetings. The small croft will be managed by the people as well, they can watch their hub grow simultaneously to each neighborhood’s guidance tree.

MATERIALITY

CCPS

Corrugated bio-plastic

Douglas Fir

COLLABORATION Collaborating with local businesses and organizations to educate the community and thoughtfully execute means for proper waste management.

Existing organizations in the UK and Edinburgh can collaborate with neighborhood hubs.

On a small, local scale, the Shrub Coop located adjacent to Shawfair, in Edinburgh, has encouraged zero-waste in the community. The Cooperative educated the community and provides a local membership-based trading hub, members may donate items they no longer want and swap them for other things they may need. The “Guidance” hub at Shawfair will similarly have a swap area.

Terracycle has become one of the leading companies fighting waste and discovering new ways to recycle the un-recyclable. They have a program where you may send a box of mixed items that will be sorted and recycled at their facilities. A collaboration with this company at the scale of a whole town can create strong networks and connections for Shawfair as a leader in sustainable living.

PLAY VIEW

Collaboration and team building may also form within neighborhoods.

Community Hub leaders can take initiative and host activities at their hub to educate their neighbors. Members of the hub will have full responsibility and freedom for maintenance. These hubs will link with the “Offering” community garden as a similar concept but, on a neighborhood scale.

REVIVE

Play

Play for all ages, children and adults can enjoy various activities.

Relax

Swing areas for oth adults and children, parents can equally enjoy the activities.

Exercise

Encouraging an active community will improve health and well-being.

REVIVE FOSTERING AN ACTIVE COMMUNITY

MATERIALITY

Public access to exercise and play is essential to good health and well-being. This space has activities for all ages and levels to enjoy, soft play for children, advanced play for teens such as climbing, functional exercise equipment for adults and seating/picnic areas for the whole family.

Local and salvaged materials will be used to construct the activity areas, this will require some creativity and ultimately stray from the concept but, it will maintain a strong local identity through materiality.

Local Stone

Cob

BACK TO THE BASICS

Douglas Fir

Reclaimed Construction Waste

The exercise area is constructed of simple forms that can be used in a variety of ways by an individual or group exercise. Although Scotland has cooler weather, it is healthier for people to exercise outdoors, it can lower blood pressure, heart rate and encourage people to get out.

PLAY VIEW

EXERCISE VIEW

INNOVATE

Display of Human Power

The pavers are designed to convert kinetic energy from pedestrians and cyclists into energy.

Space to Rest

Sheltered seating areas for people to rest on their way to or from the train station.

Parametric Catchment

Roof structure blends with the organic forms and directs rain water to a catchment tank below to e reused in the garden.

INNOVATE SIGNIFYING INNOVATION AT SHAWFAIR

MATERIALITY

The green bridge overpass will connect pedestrians from the train station to Shawfair City Center, this will be a primary entry which makes this location an important opportunity to showcase Shawfair as a pioneering new development.

The overpass will also function as a community park with multi-use open space. Commuters can enjoy the space while waiting for a train or as a wind down from a long day of work.

3D Printed Soil

Pavegen

Stone Gabion

KINETIC ENERGY Pavegen transforms footsteps into clean, green electricity. It also has the ability to collect data which can provide insight to how people are using the space. This system makes a transitional space more useful.

The Pavegen system will enrich the educational experience of visitors and residents. The gamification of the site will induce interactive learning with a display of lights from the pavilion in the early morning and evening. The light will create a safer space for pedestrians during dawn and dusk.

This will represent the power of humans as they charge the light display each day.

TRANSITIONAL SPACE FOR PEDESTRIANS ARRIVING & LEAVING SHAWFAIR

INNOVATION PAVILION LIGHTS AT DUSK

HOST MARKETS & EVENTS IN THE OPEN SPACE

SUMMARY OF OUTCOMES Urban Acupuncture as a method for new development in Shawfair will result in a more sustainable place for the community and the environment. A flexible network of activities will be created that may grow and adapt with Shawfair. This network of pavilions will engage residents and visitors, creating a strong sense of place and identity. This will influence people to care more, encouraging visitors and future investments for a long term prosperous future for Shawfair. Shawfair will become an example for sustainable living.

COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY

1

Equal access to public activity hubs dispersed throughout Shawfair enforces Equity. Desirable resources are not clustered in one area.

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

2

Variety and a spread-out network will allow for further development in-between points of activity. As Shawfair becomes a destination within the Midlothian it will attract new businesses and industry.

1

Integrated green-roofs and micro habitats will benefit local biodiversity and protection of existing habitats.

ESTABLISHING A SENSE OF PRIDE

1 2

The use of local and reclaimed materials will decrease environmental impact of construction. Simple and modular construction methods will also be minimally invasive over-time.

A network of activities provide things for people to do, this will make them care more for their community and decrease anti-social behaviors such as vandalism.

2

Activity hubs provide space for people to gather and socialize with community members that they otherwise would not have the opportunity to. Community connections will create a sense of identity and pride.

REFERENCES “URBAN ACUPUNCTURE : MANUEL DE SOLA-MORALES.” ADAM PARSONS DESIGN THESIS, January 1, 1970. http://adamparsonsdesignthesis.blogspot. com/2010/12/urban-acupuncture-manuel-de-sola.html#:~:text=URBAN%20ACUPUNCTURE%20%3A%20MANUEL%20DE%20SOLA%2DMORALES,Architecture%20and%20Urban&text=His%20interventions%20unleash%20a%20heightened,density%2C%20between%20building%20and%20 activity.

“Connection to Nature: Why Connecting with Nature Is Important - RSPB.” The RSPB. Accessed May 31, 2021. https://www.rspb.org.uk/our-work/ conservation/projects/connection-to-nature/#:~:text=Research%20shows%20that%20people%20with,critical%20for%20future%20nature%20 conservation.

De Sola Morales, M. (2008) A Matter of Things, Rotterdam, NAi Publishers.

Diaz, Luis F., M. De Bertoldi, and Werner. Bidlingmaier. Compost Science and Technology. Waste Management Seri es (Amsterdam, Netherlands).

Boston, MA: Elsevier, 2007.

Edinburgh Planning Committee. Revised Craigmillar Urban Design Framework. Edinburgh, UK, 2013. https://democracy.edinburgh.gov.uk/Data/ Planning%20Local%20Review%20Body/20190501/Agenda/item_72_-_non-statutory_guidance_part_1.pdf.

Harrouk, Christele. “On World Cities Day UN-Habitat Releases 2020 Report on The Value of Sustainable Urbanization.” ArchDaily. ArchDaily, November 2, 2020. https://www.archdaily.com/950631/on-world-cities-day-un-habitat-releases-2020-report-on-the-value-of-sustainableurbanization?ad_source=search&ad_medium=search_result_all.

Ken Worpole, and Katharine Knox. The Social Value of Public Spaces. York, UK: Joseph Rowntree Foundation, n.d. https://www.jrf.org.uk/sites/ default/files/jrf/migrated/files/2050-public-space-community.pdf.

“Material Considerations.” A&DS Materials Library, April 21, 2021. https://materials.ads.org.uk/.

“Recycle More with TerraCycle®.” TerraCycle. https://www.terracycle.com/en-GB. Schneider, Angi. “GROWING A TRADITIONAL Victory Garden.(GROWING :: VICTORY GARDEN).” Countryside and Small Stock Journal (1985) 104, no. 4 (2020): 34.

“Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2020.” Scottish Government, 2019. https://www.gov.scot/publications/simd-illustrated-story-a-place-in-time/.

SHRUB Coop. https://www.shrubcoop.org/.

Sun, Morning, and Regeneration International. “Compost Archives.” Regeneration International. Morning Sun https://regenerationinternational.org/ wp-content/uploads/2018/10/RI-Logo-New.png, March 26, 2020. https://regenerationinternational.org/tag/compost/.

“Why Regenerative Agriculture?” Regeneration International, February 3, 2021. https://regenerationinternational.org/why-regenerative-agriculture/.

“World Cities Report 2020: The Value of Sustainable Urbanization: UN-Habitat.” United Nations, n.d. https://unhabitat.org/World%20Cities%20 Report%202020.

THE COMMUNITY NETWORK URBAN ACUPUNCTURE AS A METHOD TO CREATE A SUSTAINABLE NETWORK OF ACTIVITIES. DESIGN BRIEF

A proposal for the new settlement in Shawfair, UK, located outside of Edinburgh, will develop solutions for a new and inventive peri-urban sustainable settlement. This project evaluates how geography can shape human settlement. Urban sprawl is happening in many cities around the world and it is causing long-term environmental impact. Shawfair is a new development that aims to do things differently, by shifting the view from Urban Sprawl to Natural Sprawl, this settlements can work with the environment for a sustainable future. The landscape will form the built environment with key indicators such as flood planes, habitats and existing infrastructure.

The community network will create unique experiences between human and nature on a city, local and personal scale. This project creates a recreational network that the community can grow around. Urban Acupuncture is the primary method used in designing key intervention points that will provide community involvement, identity and activity in Shawfair.

The goal is to foster a symbiotic relationship between human and nature, equity is a key design driver on a social and environmental scale to ensure equal access and opportunity for both residents and nature to flourish. Creating a sense of place with a strong community identity will create pride in the new settlement, therefor people will care more for Shawfair, encouraging investment in the long-term success of the settlement.

A variety of intervention points will knit the community together, preventing gaps of spacial poverty to form overtime. These points will be used by locals, organizations and tourists, they will focus on human, environment and innovation to showcase the principals of Shawfair. The design will be flexible and adaptable to grow with the settlement.

DESIGN PROBLEM

The current state of the Shawfair settlement is sparse and sporadic. A proposed new development for the site will take a great deal of time to complete; therefore, a phased development will allow the town to grow steadily and be reassessed based on how people use space. New developments have the challenge to predict how spaces will be used before they are built. Traditionally, a new town plan would be zoned in specific categories but, this approach is at risk of deficiencies and spacial poverty within the urban fabric. Housing is often the heart of a development because it is a necessity and relatively predicable but, community engagement is often an after thought because difficult to assess what people will want/need and it is thought to be a costly investment. Designing and building community hubs can have a high initial start-up cost and reoccurring management expenses, encouraging small-scale interventions will be more cost efficient and adaptable overtime. Multiple small-scale interventions can connect a community on a larger scale by forming a network.

WHAT IS URBAN ACUPUNCTURE?

Urban acupuncture is a theory coined by Barcelonan architect and urbanist Manuel de Sola Morales and it has recently been developed by Finnish architect, Marco Casagrande.

This theory is inspired by Chinese medicinal acupuncture, it is believed that a small point can stimulate a larger area of networks.

When applied to the design of towns and cities like Shawfair, it can stimulate a thriving community with minimal interventions to achieve the maximum effect.

Manuel de Sola Morales believed “the essence of urbanity lies in the balance of urban mixity and density, between building and activity.”

His work evaluates the positive existing conditions of a site and the potential it has to become better. Before acting with design proposals “the skin of the city has to be observed with the attention of a detective who scrutinizes the tinniest clues in its wrinkles and their apparent lack of connection,” Sola Morales says that after this has been undertaken, intervention may begin with careful consideration, adding, removing, modifying or the restructuring.

SYMBOLISM The mining industry is what sparked the settlement of Shawfair, UK, it brought wealth and subsequently schools, libraries, museums and more industry to the surrounding area that has shaped the Shawfair we know today.

Mining heritage is deeply rooted in towns until this day. The relationship between the miner and the canary is a unique one that documents a time when humans were assisted and protected by nature. By exploring a variety of symbols derived from the mining industry, key themes are identified to inform an immersively empathetic experience. It is now time for the roles to reverse, humans must protect nature and be inspired by it.

Headstock

Miner

Miner Cap

Canary

Cage

Coal mining has a very negative connotations, this design does not aim to condone the harm that mining has done to our earth. Without coal mining, our society would have never achieved what we have today largely from the industrial revolution.

Headstocks have become a symbol for coal mining communities and coal production. They were needed to exploit deep coal seams, they are very much a product of the industrial revolution. They are now a powerful symbol in historic mining settlements, they represent strength.

The job of a miner is one that requires a great deal of sacrifice for what their efforts have made possible today.

The cap is a significant mining tool which guided the miner by lighting their path through the darkness. It also symbolizes protection from the dangers of the mining environment.

Early coal miners used canaries to detect poisonous gases underground to give workers a chance of survival.

Their heightened senses allowed them to be effected by the gas first. Miners developed relationships with their canaries and treated them as pets.

A later version of the canary cage was developed with an oxygen tank to revive the canary because after detecting gas it would become ill or die, the oxygen would assist it back to health.

This is evidence that the miners cared for the canaries.

Heritage

Innovate

Offering

Guidance

Comfort

Revive

COMMUNITY SUSTAINABILITY

ENVIRONMENTAL SUSTAINABILITY

ESTABLISHING A SENSE OF PRIDE

FOSTERING AN ACTIVE, SUSTAINABLE COMMUNITY THROUGH URBAN ACUPUNCTURE. DESIGNING RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN PEOPLE AND NATURE FOR LONG-TERM ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL WELL-BEING.

If urban acupuncture is integrated into the town fabric from the start, then a strong foundation will allow the community to develop and grow from small design interventions. When points of activity are designed collectively, this forms a recreational district which encourages dense use by occupants at the risk of deficiencies developing elsewhere but, if these key activity points are dispersed throughout a town, they can act as pin points for linking the community together through an active network of key destinations. Urban acupuncture aims to reclaim land to the public and emphasizes the importance of community development. Small design interventions will simultaneously promote activity, connectivity and space to pause among an urban settlement where people will be reconnected with nature.

Strategic placement of each key design area will begin to form a network of connections, this will root Shawfair and allow ease for future growth.

Designing a town that is rooted to grow.

Consolidation leads to isolation.

This is a case where a divide will benefit the space in between, the town will begin to shape from key design areas.

1

Equal access to public activity hubs dispersed throughout Shawfair enforces Equity. Desirable resources are not clustered in one area.

2

Variety and a spread-out network will allow for further development in-between points of activity. As Shawfair becomes a destination within the Midlothian it will attract new businesses and industry.

1

Integrated green-roofs and micro habitats will benefit local biodiversity and protection of existing habitats.

1 2

The use of local and reclaimed materials will decrease environmental impact of construction. Simple and modular construction methods will also be minimally invasive over-time.

A network of activities provide things for people to do, this will make them care more for their community and decrease anti-social behaviors such as vandalism.

2

Activity hubs provide space for people to gather and socialize with community members that they otherwise would not have the opportunity to. Community connections will create a sense of identity and pride.

PRIORITIES HUMAN

ENVIRONMENT

INNOVATION

Wellbeing • Activity • Community • Inclusivty • Connection

Biodiversity • Regeneration • Conservation • Inspiration • Policy

Adaptability • Flexibility • Productive Technology • Materiality

The design should foster an inclusive and active environment where the Shawfair community may thrive. Wellbeing with be a key driving factor in the design to create desirable recreational outlets for individuals and the community as a whole.

Coal Mining Site

Urban Acupuncture as a method for new development in Shawfair will result in a more sustainable place for the community and the environment. A flexible network of activities will be created that may grow and adapt with Shawfair. This network of pavilions will engage residents and visitors, creating a strong sense of place and identity. This will influence people to care more, encouraging visitors and future investments for a long term prosperous future for Shawfair. Shawfair will become an example for sustainable living.

HOW CAN URBAN ACUPUNCTURE BENEFIT SHAWFAIR?

CONCEPT DESIGNING A SYMBIOTIC RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN HUMAN AND NATURE TO RECONCILE OUR HARMFUL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT.

A MORE SUSTAINABLE SHAWFAIR

People will be physically connected through the community network and empathetic experiences will connect them to nature.

The development on a new sustainable community in Shawfair will promote biodiversity and regeneration to mitigate the harmful impact of the previous coal mining site and the degraded land from agricultural use. It will be important to follow local guidance and policy.

The environment will be the inspiration driving the design, the natural and built environment should seamlessly collide.

URBAN ACUPUNCTURE IN SHAWFAIR

Innovation will be the the key stone of Shawfair. By following current and up-coming sustainable practices this new development with be the hallmark of community wellbeing and connectivity. Each material, method and system will be selected intentionally selected for a purpose.

Adaptability and flexibility will allow Shawfair to grow without unforeseen consequences.

The goal of urban acupuncture is to create maximum effect with minimal intervention, predicting the density of use based on type of activity and location will inform the potential and needs for each interervention point to support visitors and activities.

Key hubs for activity will connect the community with space for Shawfair to develop in-between.

Community well-being, equality and environmental sustainability is a priority in each design.

OFFERING Discover

Build Your Own Modular Garden Plot

Gather

Habitat

Rest

Discover

The Potting Shed

Encourage community skill and individuality to create a unique sense of place.

COMFORT

Experience Water

The Bonfire

Modular structure with integrated rain harvesting for use in the garden.

An immersive experience for visitors to appreciate nature with a rain chain wall simulating a waterfall.

Featuring reclaimed rebar structure for wood storage and a three part compost system.

Gather

HERITAGE Discover

Celebrate

Experience Air

Space to Rest

Gathering

A display that creates a feeling of lightness with sheer fabric panels and a swing for a sensational experience.

A small earthwork amphitheater provides space for community gatherings and events.

Integrated seating will encourage community interaction and space to enjoy the outdoors.

Gather

Heritage Exhibit

A small exhibition experience that educated the community about how Shawfair came to be.

Celebrate

GUIDANCE

Habitat

Bird Habitats

Green roofs and habitats will increase biodiversity. Inspired by traditional Dove Cotes throughout the United Kingdom.

Discover

The Timeline

An installation that represents the timeline of Shawfair.

People may interact with the whimsical display.

Local Waste

Educate the community on how to properly recycle and compost with modular containers.

Gather

Community Share

A place t trade items or simply leave those you no longer need for a neighbor to use.

Celebrate

REVIVE

Learn

Play

Community Pavilion

Modular structure with integrated rain harvesting for use in the garden. Similar to the Offering Potting Shed.

Garden Plot

Using the modular system as pllanting beds, a small amount of produce and herbs may be grown in neighborhoods,

Play

Play for all ages, children and adults can enjoy various activities.

Gather

INNOVATE

Rest

Relax

Swing areas for oth adults and children, parents can equally enjoy the activities.

Discover

Exercise

Encouraging an active community will improve health and well-being.

Display of Human Power

Play

Celebrate

Space to Rest

The pavers are designed to convert kinetic energy from pedestrians and cyclists into energy.

Sheltered seating areas for people to rest on their way to or from the train station.

Parametric Catchment

Roof structure blends with the organic forms and directs rain water to a catchment tank below to e reused in the garden.

PLAY VIEW

PLAY VIEW COMFORT PAVILLION

CONNECTION TO NATURE

THE POTTING SHED INTERIOR

People with a greater connection to nature are more likely to behave positively towards the environment, wildlife and habitats.

This pavilion aims to comfort individuals by providing a free space for expression in unity with nature. Visitors are immersed in the elements; water, a rain wall simulates a waterfall; wind, a swing seated area beneath an open air exhibit of fabric panels; fire and earth, an earth work amphitheater with a bonfire for community gathering.

REGENERATIVE AGRICULTURE The practice of regenerative agriculture refers to efforts to mitigate climate change by rebuilding soil organic matter and restoring degraded soil biodiversity. The regeneration of soil can reduce carbon and improve water cycles.

The key principle to regenerative agriculture is that it doesn’t harm land and it does improve it.

Nutrient rich compost is a common and rather simple practice to regenerate soil.

The soil in Shawfair is acidic due to the longterm use for agriculture, the land has been drained of nutrients.

As the community garden moves position annually it will regenerate the soil over time with compost.

A combination of ground and container plantings will be used to grow crops and herbs in the community garden. The container gardens are non-invasive to the land and their modularity makes them easy to move throughout the seasons.

pride for place. This system is used in multiple arrangements including a vertical growing

2

Assembly

Primarily indigenous wood and reclaimed steel rebar from construction waste.

system which is minimally invasive to the soil and may be changed periodically. The system

Modular building elements are assembled, utilize community skills.

1

is light weight and easy to assemble. Second, it may be used to create the potting shed and other small structures for storage as a modular wall. The void will be filled with mycelium

LIFE-CYCLE

Repeat

which has strong insulation qualities and is able to return back to earth after life.

3 Design & Build

Primary structures are assembled, including the enclosed workshop, fire pavilion and key planting areas.

The Offering Community Garden will be a temporary place for members of Shawfair to learn and grow. It will simultaneously nourish the land and the residents.

7 Return

At the point where the site is disassembled, elements such as Mycelium, compost and ground cover will stay to decompose and continuously nourish the soil.

Cob

Douglas Fir

Day An individual may enjoy the space in solitude, with community yoga or other peaceful gatherings.

CREATING A COMMUNITY IDENTITY The Heritage pavilion is located in the town center at a major intersection point, it will display interactive exhibits that celebrate Shawfair’s history and future. This central space will provide multi-use areas for community gathering.

An abstract installation will be commissioned by a local artist to illustrate Shawfair’s timeline. Dove cotes will be carved into the cob structure to provide habitats for wildlife and encourage citizen science, community members may explore the local flora and fauna.

The multi-use pavilion can adapt to user needs with retractable walls that may change the appearance and temperature by season.

A modular box planter made from locally sourced Douglas Fir. These may be constructed Materials are locally sourced

HERITAGE EXHIBIT OUTDOORS

Local Stone

Night The wall can close and open a small performance space and film projections.

MATERIALITY

Ferrock

Cob

MODULAR WALL

A local waste management hub within individual neighborhoods. This modular concept will be tested in Shawfair’s first neighborhood development and will then be adapted and replicated throughout various neighborhoods as a valuable resource. A conveniently located hub such as this will educate the neighborhood and create sustainable, life-long habits for adults and children. The hub will feature waste and food recycling bins managed by Shawfair Council in collaboration with other organizations. The trading center will be run by the neighborhood for trading of items at the donation shelves and ideas at the small workshop that may host neighborhood meetings. The small croft will be managed by the people as well, they can watch their hub grow simultaneously to each neighborhood’s guidance tree.

Douglas Fir

Local and salvaged materials will be used to construct the activity areas, this will require some creativity and ultimately stray from the concept but, it will maintain a strong local identity through materiality.

MATERIALITY

EDUCATE & EXHIBIT A small public exhibit will display significant moments in the creation of the Shawfair we know today. The design intends to create a narrow, tunneling experience similar to mining. The exhibit will be simple and low maintenance with minimal risk for damaging the displays.

MATERIALITY

SIGNIFYING INNOVATION AT SHAWFAIR The green bridge overpass will connect pedestrians from the train station to Shawfair City Center, this will be a primary entry which makes this location an important opportunity to showcase Shawfair as a pioneering new development.

The overpass will also function as a community park with multi-use open space. Commuters can enjoy the space while waiting for a train or as a wind down from a long day of work.

Local Stone

Cob

Douglas Fir

Reclaimed Construction Waste

MATERIALITY

BACK TO THE BASICS CCPS

Corrugated bioplastic

Douglas Fir

The exercise area is constructed of simple forms that can be used in a variety of ways by an individual or group exercise. Although Scotland has cooler weather, it is healthier for people to exercise outdoors, it can lower blood pressure, heart rate and encourage people to get out.

3D Printed Soil

Pavegen

Stone Gabion

KINETIC ENERGY Pavegen transforms footsteps into clean, green electricity. It also has the ability to collect data which can provide insight to how people are using the space. This system makes a transitional space more useful.

COLLABORATION

The Pavegen system will enrich the educational experience of visitors and residents. The gamification of the site will induce interactive learning with a display of lights from the pavilion in the early morning and evening. The light will create a safer space for pedestrians during dawn and dusk.

Collaborating with local businesses and organizations to educate the community and thoughtfully execute means for proper waste management.

This will represent the power of humans as they charge the light display each day.

Existing organizations in the UK and Edinburgh can collaborate with neighborhood hubs.

With a modular approach to urban agriculture, the garden will be easily assembled and disassembled. The time of the life cycle may take two years to regenerate the plot of land.

4 Educate

5 Disassemble

When the site has been regenerated it will be relocated within Shawfair to begin the nourishment of a new area.

Create

Citizen science workshops on how to garden and regenerate land

Community members can expand the site by adding their own garden plot with modular building elements.

On a small, local scale, the Shrub Coop located adjacent to Shawfair, in Edinburgh, has encouraged zero-waste in the community. The Cooperative educated the community and provides a local membership-based trading hub, members may donate items they no longer want and swap them for other things they may need. The “Guidance” hub at Shawfair will similarly have a swap area.

6

VERTICAL PLANTING

Public access to exercise and play is essential to good health and well-being. This space has activities for all ages and levels to enjoy, soft play for children, advanced play for teens such as climbing, functional exercise equipment for adults and seating/picnic areas for the whole family.

CREATING SUSTAINABLE HABITS

BY DAY & BY NIGHT

LIFE-CYCLE

on-site by community members, encouraging skill and involvement to foster a sense of

MATERIALITY

The pavilion is adjacently located to the town center and water infrastructure surrounded by rain gardens to prevent flooding during rainy seasons.

SOIL IN SHAWFAIR

MODULARITY

FOSTERING AN ACTIVE COMMUNITY

MODULAR COMPONENT

SECTION - RAIN GARDENS

PLAN - PHASED EXPANSION

Rain gardens located between the garden plots and the water will filter storm water run off before it

The modular approach to the community garden will allow it to expand overtime. A community

enters the water infrastructure. The water run off will follow the slopes to a central point for drainage.

member will be able to join the garden at will and build their own plot.

TRANSITIONAL SPACE FOR PEDESTRIANS ARRIVING & LEAVING SHAWFAIR

Terracycle has become one of the leading companies fighting waste and discovering new ways to recycle the un-recyclable. They have a program where you may send a box of mixed items that will be sorted and recycled at their facilities. A collaboration with this company at the scale of a whole town can create strong networks and connections for Shawfair as a leader in sustainable living.

Collaboration and team building may also form within neighborhoods. Community Hub leaders can take initiative and host activities at their hub to educate their neighbors.

Members of the hub will have full responsibility and freedom for maintenance. These hubs will link with the “Offering” community garden as a similar concept but, on a neighborhood scale.

RAIN WALL

N

EXHIBIT INTERIOR

HOST MARKETS & EVENTS IN THE OPEN SPACE

EXERCISE VIEW