Episode #9 3D-Printed Modular Vertical Farming
with Alina Chereyskaya and Stepan Kukharskiy, SA lab
Welcome back to What’s That Green?, your go-to podcast where we explore the innovative ways nature can be integrated into our urban environments. I’m your host, Fanny, and today, I am thrilled to share with you a project that is both groundbreaking and heartwarming—a perfect blend of cutting-edge technology and a vision for a greener future.
In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of SA Lab and their project on 3D-printed modular vertical farming. It’s a story of architectural brilliance, community engagement, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability. So, let’s explore with Alina Chereyskaya and Stepan Kukharskiy this fascinating endeavor that brings nature back to our concrete jungles!
Feeding the growing cities
The world is changing rapidly. Our cities are expanding at an unprecedented rate, and with that growth comes an ever-pressing challenge: how do we feed the millions of people living in these dense urban areas? As we pave more roads and build more skyscrapers, we’re also losing valuable farmland. Food production is becoming an increasingly complex issue, with traditional farming methods struggling to keep up with the needs of our growing populations.
That’s where SA Lab steps in. They’ve taken this challenge head-on, reimagining how we can grow food in urban environments. Their project isn’t just about planting a few gardens; it’s about transforming the way we think about food production in cities. Their solution? A flexible, scalable, and sustainable system that they call “Architectural Jungle.” This is no ordinary garden—it’s a 3D-printed vertical farm that can fit into the tightest urban spaces, from cafes to schools to office buildings.
A modular urban farming system
Imagine a system that operates like a set of giant, plant-filled Lego blocks. That’s essentially what Architectural Jungle is—a modular urban farming system that can be easily assembled and adapted to different environments. The beauty of this project lies in its flexibility. Whether you want to create a small herb garden in a café or a larger installation in a public park, Architectural Jungle allows you to scale up or down depending on the space and needs of the area.
“We wanted to create a solution that can adapt to different urban environments and weather conditions. Something that’s scalable, sustainable, and flexible.” Alina
3D printing and hydroponics
Now, let’s talk about the tech behind this incredible idea. SA Lab’s vertical farm is not just innovative in its concept but also in its execution. The entire structure is 3D-printed using recyclable plastic, which not only makes the process more sustainable but also offers tremendous creative freedom. The modular units are designed with precision, allowing them to fit seamlessly into any urban space while still maintaining functionality and aesthetics.
What’s even more exciting is the integration of hydroponic systems. For those unfamiliar with hydroponics, it’s a method of growing plants without soil, using nutrient-rich water instead. This system uses up to 90% less water than traditional farming methods and allows plants to grow year-round, even in the limited spaces of a bustling city.
“Hydroponic systems need just water and electricity to grow plants year-round, even in limited spaces. It’s a game-changer for urban farming.” Stepan
This combination of 3D printing and hydroponics is nothing short of revolutionary. It offers an efficient and eco-friendly way to grow food in cities, reducing the need for large agricultural spaces and cutting down on transportation costs and carbon emissions. Plus, it adds greenery to our urban landscapes, making our cities more pleasant places to live.
Golf serves as a gateway to nature, challenging preconceived notions about marshlands and wastelands. Through interactive experiences, visitors immerse themselves in the verdant landscape, fostering a deeper appreciation for its ecological significance. Educational initiatives, ranging from golf lessons to wickerwork courses, cater to diverse audiences, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.
Richard emphasizes the importance of preserving a mosaic of biotopes, each contributing to the rich tapestry of biodiversity. From riverbanks to alluvial woodlands, every habitat is meticulously curated to support a myriad of plant and animal species. Scientific assessments validate the project’s ecological integrity, highlighting its compatibility with conservation objectives.
From idea to prototype
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Architectural Jungle project is how quickly it went from an idea to a working prototype. The team organized a three-month workshop, where they brought together twelve participants from different backgrounds, along with technical partners who specialized in 3D printing and hydroponics. This collaborative approach allowed them to move from research to prototype at an impressive speed.
By the end of the workshop, they had successfully 3D-printed their first prototype—a modular vertical farm made from recyclable plastic that cultivated over 100 herbs. This prototype was later integrated into a design district, where it not only functioned as a working farm but also as a beautiful piece of urban art. The team didn’t stop there—they also developed an app and hosted lectures to engage more people in the project, turning it into a community-driven effort.
A new typology of vertical farms
What’s truly inspiring about SA Lab’s project is its potential impact on the future of urban farming. They’ve created something entirely new—a middle ground between large industrial farms and small decorative plants. Architectural Jungle is a new typology of vertical farms, one that can be adapted to various urban settings and scaled to meet the needs of different communities.
“We were developing something in the middle that you could bring to an interior, for example, and make your interior project more green and sustainable. It’s a unique option that we’re excited to bring to the world.” Stepan
This project is more than just a technical achievement; it’s a vision of a future where nature is woven into the fabric of our cities. It’s a solution that addresses food scarcity while making our urban environments more sustainable and livable.
What’s next?
The success of the initial prototype has opened up exciting new possibilities for SA Lab. After showcasing the project, they were approached by a developer interested in integrating Architectural Jungle into one of their upcoming projects. This partnership could be the first step toward scaling the idea and bringing it to more cities around the world.
For SA Lab, this is just the beginning. They are eager to continue experimenting with new technologies and exploring how urban farming can evolve.
“I believe we can address today’s problems using technology. 3D printing and hydroponics are just the start. The possibilities are endless.” Alina
As I reflect on this episode, I’m filled with hope and excitement. SA Lab’s Architectural Jungle is a shining example of how innovative thinking and collaboration can bring about real change. It’s a project that not only addresses the pressing challenges of urban food production but also adds beauty and greenery to our cities.
At What’s That Green?, we believe that nature is the solution to many of our urban challenges, and projects like this one remind us that a greener future is within reach. With visionaries like Alina, Stepan, and the rest of the SA Lab team leading the way, I have no doubt that we’ll see more of these incredible projects popping up in cities around the world.
So, let’s keep the conversation going. How can we bring more nature back into our cities? How can we support projects like Architectural Jungle? I’d love to hear your thoughts, and as always, let’s continue to inspire positive change together.
- Host and Editor: Fanny Téoule
- Guests: Alina Chereyskaya and Stepan Kukharskiy, SA lab
- Music composer: Jenny Nedosekina
- Graphic designer: Julia Micklewright