Agrocropolis: Vertical Farming in Toronto's Distillery District

This thesis proposes a city block farming structure that aims to implement strategies of neighbourhood self-sufficiency within the core of Toronto. It will research the new marketplace demand for local and fresh produce across North America as an alternative to the current globalized food model based on a “just-in-time” delivery system. This investigation is significant because cities such as Toronto are seeking different means to bring local produce and farming into the urban context. This thesis will analyze the past and present status of Toronto’s food and agricultural industry in order to propose a scheme that will maximize the economic and social benefits for urban neighbourhoods. The thesis project will suggest a tower design that will service the neighbourhood’s intermediate needs through a podium level food market, create a relationship with its surrounding neighbourhood, as well as improve the quality of the community through integrated urban design strategies.