Greenergy
"Harmonizing Perspectives: Fusing Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches for Sustainable Communities through Green Integration in Residential Projects."
[BARC 2023] Bartlett School of Architecture BARC0033: Design Practice for Historic Environments 23/24
Student Number : 23138484 & 23225725
ABSTRACT
This project’s emphasis is the fusion between top-down and bottom-up methodologies aimed at advancing sustainable communities. By infusing residential developments with culturally sensitive and eco-conscious components, we not only adhere to the directives of the Tower Hamlets Plan but also foster a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. Limehouse, celebrated for its cultural diversity and enduring Bengali community presence, serves as the epicentre of our research. Our observation at Limehouse Town Hall uncovered a grassroots initiative known as the Food Coop, organised by the Limehouse Town Hall Consortium Trust (LTHCT) and predominantly led by Bengali women. This cooperative initiative offers reasonably priced organic goods to local residents, igniting a deeper exploration into the importance of fruits and vegetables in their daily lives. Engaging with residents through interviews led us to Norbiton Road, specifically the Ashpark and Newdigate House estates, where we discovered underutilized gardens despite residents expressing a keen interest in cultivating produce. This discrepancy mirrors the diverse cultural tapestry of Bengali and British communities in the area, underscoring the significance of gardening as an intergenerational practice intertwined with residents' everyday routines. Through understanding the lens of residents' daily habits, existing urban-farming networks, and the architectural features of residential buildings, we aim to explore the potential at a neighborhoodscale and cultivate opportunities for self-sustainable communities through the integration of urban farming. Our overarching objective is to nurture lively, resilient neighbourhoods where green infrastructure not only curtails environmental impact but also fosters deeper community engagement and enhances overall well-being. Ultimately, this typological proposal is geared towards introducing practical strategies, initially focusing on Limehouse before extending our reach to broader communities.
Children holding plants on a grass, Source: London Environment Strategy, Mayor of London
CONTENTS
01 02 03 04 PROLOGUE
OBSERVATION + INTERVIEW
DESIGN INTERVENTION VISION
Limehouse City Scenery, Source: AndrewHolt
Prologue
01 Prologue
Climate Change
London grapples with escalating climate change impacts, marked by soaring temperatures and heightened frequency of extreme weather events. Data from the UK Met Office underscores the severity, revealing a 1.8°C increase in London’s average temperature since the 19th century (Jones et al., 2020). This warming trend amplifies urban heat island effects, exacerbating strain on infrastructure and jeopardizing residents’ health (Oke, 1982). Moreover, projections indicate a surge in heat-related deaths and significant economic costs associated with climate-related damages (BACC II Author Team, 2015). Urgent action is imperative to mitigate these effects, necessitating comprehensive strategies to enhance resilience, promote sustainable practices, and safeguard the well-being of Londoners amidst evolving climatic challenges.
London faces escalating climate change impacts with rising temperatures and more extreme weather events, evidenced by a 1.8°C temperature increase since the 19th century, exacerbating urban heat island effects and health risks. Urgent action is needed to enhance resilience and sustainability efforts. Pollution, particularly in Limehouse, contributes to air and water contamination, posing significant health risks that require strict regulations, sustainable transportation solutions, and improved waste management practices. In Tower Hamlets, green spaces play a vital role in improving mental health, acting as natural air filters, supporting biodiversity, and promoting ecological resilience. Preserving these benefits is essential for creating healthier and more sustainable communities across London.
Pollution plagues London, particularly in the Limehouse area, manifesting in various forms such as air and water contamination. Traffic congestion contributes to high levels of air pollutants like nitrogen dioxide (NO2) and particulate matter (PM). The bustling industrial activity and shipping along the Thames further exacerbate air quality issues. Additionally, urban runoff and inadequate sewage systems result in water pollution, threatening aquatic ecosystems. These pollutants pose significant health risks to residents, with studies linking them to respiratory ailments and cardiovascular diseases (Gowers et al., 2016; WHO, 2018). Addressing pollution demands concerted efforts, including stringent regulations, sustainable transportation initiatives, and enhanced waste management practices tailored to Limehouse’s unique environmental challenges.
In Tower Hamlets, London, green spaces are essential for residents’ well-being and environmental sustainability. Research highlights their positive impact on mental health, especially in densely populated areas like Tower Hamlets, reducing stress and enhancing overall psychological well-being (Gascon et al., 2015). Additionally, green spaces mitigate urban air pollution by acting as natural filters, absorbing carbon dioxide and pollutants, thereby improving air quality and respiratory health (Nowak et al., 2006). Furthermore, they support biodiversity, providing habitats for various species, promoting ecological resilience, and fostering a connection with nature (Fuller et al., 2007). Preserving these green benefits is vital for fostering healthier, more sustainable communities in Tower Hamlets and beyond.
Air Pollution
Green Benefits
London Faced Environmental Challenges with Rising Air Pollution, Source: Alastair Grant
Source: BBC News
Source: BBC News
Source: Royal City Nursery
01 Prologue
Green Connecting Strategy around Limehouse Area, “London Environment Strategy”, Source: London Environment Strategy, Mayor of London
Connecting the “Green”
In “The London Plan” (March 2021), The Mayor of London underscores the imperative of integrating green infrastructure, notably through parks like Victoria, Mile End, St Agnes Green, Brickfield Gardens, and Ropemaker parks. Academic literature supports this approach, emphasizing the multifaceted benefits of urban green spaces. Studies such as those by Jennings and Mola-Yudego (2020) stress the role of parks in enhancing urban biodiversity and mitigating the adverse effects of climate change. “The London Plan” outlines strategies for integrating these parks into a cohesive green network, focusing on enhancing connectivity, accessibility, and ecological resilience. This involves initiatives such as creating green corridors and wildlife habitats, as well as incorporating sustainable design features to manage stormwater and reduce the urban heat island effect. By integrating these parks into the broader green infrastructure framework, London aims to create healthier, more livable communities while addressing pressing environmental challenges.
Observation + Interview
Children holding plants on a grass, Source: London Environment Strategy, Mayor of London
02
Observation + Interview
Site - Bird-Eye View Perspective
The site, situated on Norbiton Road, Limehouse, London, comprises two standard housing estates: Ashpark and Newdigate House. Each structure spans three floors, featuring two types of units: one-bedroom and two-bedroom. The one-bedroom units are positioned centrally within the building, while the two-bedroom units occupy the ends of the corridor. Facing both south and north directions, the building’s facade overlooks Norbiton Road to the south.
One bedroom
bedroom
02 Observation + Interview
The ground-floor units possess a distinctive feature, offering private gardens on the southern aspect of the building, with the corridor directly overlooking the northern gardens. Despite this provision, our field observations revealed the underutilization of these outdoor spaces. While most residents incorporate outdoor seating areas, some sections of the gardens are repurposed for storage due to limited indoor space. Interviews that were conducted with residents showed that storage constraints within the building drive this practice. Interestingly, residents also engage in small-scale vegetable cultivation, evidenced by potted plants and plant boxes. Moreover, the garden serves as a social space, with integrated seating areas facilitating outdoor gatherings, including barbecue activities. Moreover, the shared garden facing towards the north was not actively developed as a green space. In discussions with a gardener from Tower Hamlets (Pablo) and local resident (Muhammad Uddin), concerns were raised regarding the misuse of gardens for household waste disposal. Additionally, it was conveyed that the council is in the process of determining appropriate vegetation for the gardens, considering their susceptibility to attracting pests.
Ground Floor Plan
02 Observation + Interview
Ground Floor Plan
Some families prefer putting plant pots rather than grass, because that way is more easy to maintain themselve.
Tower Hamlets provides farming spaces on the back of the building to residents, but the area is not enough to share with everyone.
There area some picnic tables and chairs for rest ourside. The family used to be there with a cup of tea with their family members.
There area some picnic tables and chairs for rest ourside. The family used to be there with a cup of tea with their family members.
Back Garden
Individual Garden
Individual Garden Stone-paved Garden
02
Observation + Interview
Distinct differences were noted between the typical floor plans of the 1st and 2nd floors. Observations revealed that many windows facing the south lacked proper shading, evidenced by integrated curtains, indicating excessive sunlight exposure. Similarly, balcony usage exhibited a recurring theme of storage utilization, primarily for drying clothes—a preference among Bengali residents for sun-drying over machine drying, rather than solely due to indoor space constraints. Additionally, some balconies featured unique characteristics such as rattan integration into the railing and nets atop them. Furthermore, residents utilized balcony space for growing plants, with pots stacked on shelving, as well as for creating seating areas and small playgrounds for children. These findings underscore diverse cultural practices and functional adaptations within the residential context.
Ground Floor Plan
02
Observation + Interview
We met kids who were playing on balcony. Their dad said they do not have enough space to play at home.
There are many stuffs in front of doors, like a kickboard, a ball, a plant box. This means they have some items which they want to put outside. Plus, we found many families put plant boxes on the aisle, engaging in the aisle-scape.
Drying racks are placed on the balconies in this flat, which has good condition to dry. (Southern faced)
Many units closed curtains to block direct sunlight and prevent their privacy.
In front of doors
Closed-Screen
Drying area
Kids play space
Observation + Interview
[Legend]
02
Observation + Interview
01. Balcony - Growing Plants
Some units exhibit shelving on balconies for potted plants and gardening tools storage, evidencing residents’ adaptation to space constraints. Lacking gardens, they utilize balconies as green spaces, showcasing a creative approach to incorporate greenery into their living environment despite spatial limitations.
02. Living Area
Interviews with British households stress the significance of the living area in boosting productivity and fostering social connections. This space is vital for creating an ideal setting for remote work and acts as a central social hub for welcoming neighbors and hosting family gatherings. Its versatility extends beyond professional needs, facilitating community bonds and providing a comfortable atmosphere for gatherings.
05. Corridor - Social & Green Space
Corridors are transitioning into social spaces, with residents incorporating outdoor seating. Interviews with both Bengali and British households reveal a desire for goods exchange and conversation, potentially using the corridor as a meeting point. Additionally, green decor like potted plants enhances the corridor’s ambiance. This reflects a shift from corridors serving as mere passages to communal areas for social interaction. It highlights the importance of shared spaces in fostering community connections, transcending cultural differences, and enriching urban living experiences.
03. Dining Area
British households view the dining area as a formal space, preferring it for family gatherings and dinner. Observations indicate a preference for square-shaped dining tables among most British households.
04. Kitchen
Although the kitchen remains central to the household, British families use it less frequently than Bengali households due to their smaller family sizes. Despite this, they still prepare daily meals, but their existing kitchen space suffices for their needs. This reflects differing culinary habits and family dynamics between British and Bengali households, with the former requiring less kitchen space. Nonetheless, the kitchen remains vital for food preparation and social interaction, albeit with varying levels of activity among London’s diverse cultural communities.
One bedroom unit Two bedroom unit
[Legend] 1.Aisle
Foyer
Kitchen 4. Living room 5. Dining 6. Master Bedroom 7. Kid’s Bedroom 8. Bathroom 9. Balcony
Bengali Family Unit
02
Observation + Interview
01. Kithcen
In Bengali households, the kitchen holds utmost importance. Women utilize it daily for meal preparation, with a notable emphasis on storing various food items and spices essential for Bengali home cooking.
04. Living Area
An additional observation is the tendency of Bengali households to adorn their homes with traditional decorations like paintings, brightly colored furniture, and patterned rugs. This practice aims to foster a sense of identity and uphold cultural values, even when living away from their homeland, serving as a means of preserving their heritage.
06. Balcony - Drying Area
Bengali households often use balconies for storage and drying clothes, favoring sun-drying over machines. The preference for sun-drying clothes directly on balconies is a common practice among Bengali households, prioritizing traditional methods over modern.
08. Bedroom
In certain households, such as Muhammed Uddin’s, large family sizes pose challenges due to limited accommodation. Despite having only two bedrooms in his home, Muhammed Uddin’s family consists of four children, highlighting the need for adaptable living arrangements.
02. Corridor
The corridor width measures less than a meter and suffers from disintegrating floor finishes. This narrow space presents challenges for movement within the building and indicates a need for renovation or repair to improve accessibility. While the majority of diverse neighbours show enthusiasm for socializing and exchanging goods, particularly in the communal spaces between units (Muhammed Uddin, 46).
03. Dining Area
Families commonly utilize the dining table as a social hub for shared meals. Our findings suggest that Bengali households frequently opt for round tables, reflecting the cultural values of communal dining and facilitating social interaction during dinner.
05. Growing Herbs & Spices
According to our discussion with Anwara, a Bengali woman involved in organizing the Food Coop at Limehouse Town Hall, second-generation Bengalis in London often engage in cultivating crops like potatoes, onions, tomatoes, and peppers in their gardens. This practice serves to uphold a connection to traditional farming methods passed down from their parents in Bangladesh.
07. Foyer
Analysing the spatial distribution in the current layout revealed an excess of space in the foyer area, resulting in a negative buffer zone between the corridor and main rooms such as the living, dining, and kitchen areas.
09. Balcony - Kids Playground
Children play on balconies due to limited indoor space and lack of nearby playgrounds, as emphasized in interviews. Residents express the importance of additional playgrounds for children’s growth and well-being, underscoring the community’s need for accessible recreational areas to support child development and enhance well-being.
03
Design Intervention
03 Design Intervention
Design Practice for Historic Environments
Design Process
Renovation Option 1 - British Type, 1 bedroom
We welcomed our British family neighbors and renovated our space to reflect their car culture. Initially, we reconfigured the layout by swapping the positions of the living room and kitchen, making the kitchen the central hub of the unit and connecting it to the city-facing balcony. Additionally, we proposed a design featuring a welcome deck at the entrance, integrated with the hallway, to enhance community engagement with our neighbors. Lastly, we created a communal space by installing a neighbor deck in the corridor of this flat, which can be used jointly with neighboring units, fostering a sense of community within the building.
03 Design Intervention
03 Design Intervention
System and Details
Renovation Option 1 - British Type, 1 bedroom
03 Design Intervention
Unit Plan
Renovation Option 2
- British Type, 2 bedroom
This British unit provides optional communication with families. The welcome deck at the front enables chance encounters with neighbors and serves as a space for personal plant cultivation. Additionally, families can dine in the kitchen and enjoy a cup of tea on a private extra balcony. Lastly, the extra balcony allows for urban farming. Therefore, we propose multiple spatial layers so that these space plans can accommodate varying levels of privacy, semi-public, and public living according to family preferences.
03 Design Intervention
Design Practice for Historic Environments
Design Process
Renovation Option 3 - Bengali Type, 1 bedroom
We aimed to enhance our living space to accommodate the cultural practice of sharing evening meals with our Bengali family neighbors, who have a large family size and often face space constraints. To achieve this, we reconfigured our layout by moving the living room along the same axis as the bedrooms, creating a kitchen-centric unit. Within this kitchen, we implemented a design that incorporates both private dining areas for family gatherings and public dining spaces for neighbor-friendly interactions. Lastly, the Neighbor Deck synergizes with welcoming spaces for neighbors, fostering community engagement within our shared environment.
03 Design Intervention
03 Design Intervention
System and Details
Renovation Option 3 - Bengali Type, 1 bedroom
03 Design Intervention
Unit Plan
Renovation Option 4
- Bengali Type, 2 bedroom
This Bengali unit facilitates open communication with neighbors and community formation among families. This kitchen-centric type establishes pathways for sharing meals prepared in the kitchen with neighbors, and the welcome dining area is integrated with the flat’s shared kitchen to create synergy. Moreover, in homes with many children, parents can engage with their children while doing household chores, and the extra balcony is suggested as both an urban farming space and a playground for children. Lastly, the living room is privately planned as a space solely for families.
03 Design Intervention
Sustaineble Masterplan
This master plan demonstrates sustainable flows created through the participation of individual households, expanding from house scale, architectural scale, neighborhood scale, regional scale, to city scale. The voluntary participation of individual households represents the concept of ‘green’ not only as ecological but also as economically and socially positive sustainability. Furthermore, it appropriately reflects both bottom-up and top-down design, showing areas that government should support and areas that are rewarded, ultimately completing urban identity enhancement and achieving a green city.
03 Design Intervention
03 Design Intervention
We plan to utilize the rear staircase of the building for expansion, providing space for temporary or periodic events such as FOOD COOP, Nursery Garden, Gardening Education, and Community Farm initiatives. This space will host different events each week, offering a variety of activities and transforming the streetscape dynamically. Moreover, we aim to integrate communities of neighbors residing in adjacent houses, on the same floor, or within the same flat, fostering collaboration and creating a vibrant and energetic atmosphere within this shared space.
Vision ; Greenery Town
04 Vision
04 Vision
Facade System Explotion
Conserving the existing building
Making improvements by presserving the exterior of existing building in the Limehouse area, aiming to intervene and enhance the existing environment rather than creating an entirely new cityscape.
Installing extra balconies
Adding extra balconies on existing buildings can increase the economic value of the space and provide more elevated living and activity areas.
Design screens with rattan material
To enhance the identity of the Limehouse scenery, which is home to many Bengali families, the proposal suggests installing rattan screens within the existing Londonscape. Additionally, these rattan screens offer a sustainable design that allows Bengalis engaged in cottage industries to participate in a community-driven facade.
04 Vision
04 Vision
Greenery Community Street
04 Vision
Neighboring Rest Space
Food Coop Exterior
Food Coop First Floor
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Green Synergy
“Harmonizing Perspectives: Fusing Top-Down and Bottom-Up Approaches for Sustainable Communities through Green Integration in Residential Projects.”
[BARC 2023] Bartlett School of Architecture
BARC0033: Design Practice for Historic Environments 23/24
Tutor : Barbara Campbell-Lange
Jane Wong
Sophia Psarra
Master of Architecture and Historic Urban Environment Programme AY2023/2024
The Bartlett School of Architecture - UCL