MOBILE CITY FARMSTEAD CHICAGO ILLINOIS
There are over 90,000 vacant lots in Chicago, representing more than 6,000 acres. With the introduction of a layer of transportable nutrient-rich topsoil, Ken Dunn has created temporary farms on several vacant lots, providing fresh, organic produce to local residents, farmers markets and restaurants.  If the vacant land is sold or ready for redevelopment, the entire farm is moved to another site.
The design team developed a mobile solution that provided a recognizable face for City Farm while creating secure tool and produce storage, sheltered workspace, office, restroom, temporary housing for one employee, and a small farm stand. Architectural components selected gave precedence to salvaged, cheap, bio-degradable and, especially, easily transportable products or materials such as shipping containers, chain-link fencing, canvas, and straw bales.