Ghana Innovation Farm
Type
Innovation farm
Surface
34102.60 m2
Location
Ghana
Project
Competition| Architecture
Client
Young architect competition
Ghana Innovation Farm is a project that unites design and functionality to obtain a new concept of sustainable farms that act as a model for new constructions which can be replicated in order to curb problems like post production food waste and resource waste. In addition to being of economic help by increasing exports to other countries, this new farm model will illustrate how to produce food and promote auto consumption.
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This will further develop the technique, and eliminate methods that are not viable with the new industry for a world where efficiency is increasingly necessary to be sustainable. Located in the heart of Ghana in a natural terrain with extensive cultivation areas increases possibilities for continued future farming, therefore, building the Ghana Innovation Farm in this environment can guarantee its proper functioning.
Architecturally, the project seeks to be an icon of Ghana satisfying the economic, energy and environmental sustainability aims. A place where people can learn and mirror this system, this building integrates Ghanaian technology and tradition: by drawing inspiration from African cultures and geometric patterns. On top, the roof is a set of Isopan green-roof that moves across the land like folded paper, creating a design of environmental and architectural harmony, reducing energy transmission to safeguard the cold chain and acoustic insulation.
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It also improves the bioclimatic contribution, management of water collection and expansion of the usable area for cultivation. Skylights are in strategic points, Isopan facades (system for ventilated façades made of components and layers mechanically attached to the building) and the placement of solar panels in each block guarantees the acquiring of energy. Through the existing structure of buildings A, B and C, the aforementioned roofs are forms that surround the entire project, and in addition, they generate
spaces that are used for commuting of people, farm machinery and vehicles. All the covered spaces are used for recreational and communication areas which are between the buildings and carry out different activities and to demonstrate the variety of crops to the students of the center and the visitors.
The new innovation farm building D, seeks open spaces and corridors with landscaped facades that allow air and solar radiation to circulate. The center is divided into two blocks: the first for classes and workshops, and the other for cafeteria and offices. Between these two there are the bathrooms and a large recreational space that prevents the noise and the smells that come out of the cafeteria. All the interior dimensions of the classrooms, workshops, offices, etc. are equal to or greater than those established by the
regulations, guaranteeing that it complies with the general conditions.
