US (NY): Architects integrate vertical farm in apartment of the future

Humphreys & Partners presented a future vision of multifamily design at the 2018 International Builders' Show in Orlando on January 11th. Vice President of Design Walter Hughes revealed a high-rise concept that portrayed vivid renderings of two soaring towers on the Manhattan waterfront. This sustainable mixed-use project is thoughtfully designed with modular and micro units, co-working spaces and every amenity a futuristic apartment dweller needs to thrive: artificial intelligence, drones, home automation, autonomous vehicles, and a variety of activity and wellness centers.

More and more homes, retail and office buildings are being built with sustainable architecture in mind. The goal of Pier 2 is to build comfortable and functional residences in the most economical way possible. Units will use Photovoltaic glass, a dynamic window option that saves electrical consumption in the summer and winter by up to 34 percent. Wind turbines churn under the upper platform and create energy for homes that also decrease the building’s carbon footprint. Other energy efficient sources include solar panels, Tesla energy via Powerwall, tidal power using the currents for the Hudson River and vertical farming for food production without pesticides. On the exterior, green walls add a distinctive natural element and help to clean the air while providing wildlife habitats and increase real estate values.

Read more about the proposed project here.