Introduction

Cities today face increasing disconnection—from food systems, nature, and community. As urban areas densify, the need for shared green infrastructure that supports ecological balance, social interaction, and local food production becomes critical.

The Community Urban Farm – Designing for Shared Growth competition invites architects, designers, planners, and students to reimagine urban farming as a civic space—one that nurtures food, people, and place simultaneously. Participants are encouraged to explore how agriculture can become a catalyst for community engagement, education, sustainability, and urban resilience.

Objective

The objective of this competition is to design an inclusive, adaptable, and community-driven urban farm that integrates food production with public life. Proposals should demonstrate how design can foster shared ownership, learning, and social cohesion while responding to environmental and urban challenges.

The Building Program

Participants may propose a flexible program, which can include (but is not limited to):

• Cultivation zones (soil-based, hydroponic, or hybrid systems)

• Community gathering and workshop spaces

• Tool storage and utility areas

• Educational zones for training and awareness

• Market or distribution spaces for produce

• Composting, water management, and renewable energy systems

The scale and complexity of the program may vary based on the design approach.

Site

The site is open and conceptual. Participants may choose any urban context such as:

• Vacant plots

• Underutilized public land

• Rooftops

• Brownfield sites

• Residual urban spaces

Designs should clearly describe the chosen context and justify its relevance.