The Learning Farm — Lily Yi Li

The Learning Farm

ARCH 5114 Core Integrative Design Practices

Instructors: Felix Heisel & Margaret Kirk
Partner: Vedika Khushalani

Cornell University Department of Architecture | Spring 2024

The Learning Farm, southwest of downtown Ithaca, offers a modern approach to agricultural and life science education on a 16-acre farmstead. It aims to enhance food production knowledge for children and families through a mix of existing and new programs, including a private residence, greenhouse, classroom, barn, guest facilities, amphitheater, animal pen, community kitchen, juicery, and welcome center. The proposal seeks to transform the site into a tech-forward learning organization, emphasizing sustainability and future potential.

The site’s layout utilizes topographical features for energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Inspired by Sweden’s Naturhus movement, the design explores contrasts like private/public and enclosed/open spaces, with the welcome center and juicery highlighting these contrasts through materials and form. The design ensures smooth integration of different areas with the landscape.

Structural rammed earth is used for its thermal mass, temperature regulation, noise attenuation, and durability. In contrast, the building's other side features glue laminated timber framing with operable doors and windows for passive cooling in hot months.

This proposal advocates for sustainable development, integrating architecture with nature, promoting flexibility, and enhancing understanding of food production and environmental stewardship. The Learning Farm aims to educate and inspire visitors toward sustainable living practices.

Program Clock

Visions for:

Spring Afternoon

Summer Nights

Fall Harvest

Winter Warmth

Site Analysis

Topo Section
Site Model Scale: 1/16” = 1’-0”

Program & Formal Dichotomies

public | private

intersect | interact

light | heavy

empty | filled

continuous | distinct

Floor Plan

Longitudinal Elevation + Section

Facade Section Details

Glue Laminated Timber Framing

Rammed Earth Structural Wall

Cross Section + East Elevation

Components

Material Processes

Sectional Model Scale: 1/4” = 1’-0”

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