Songdo: urban autopoiesis

Abstract

This project examines the term autopoiesis and contextualizes it into the realm of Landscape Architecture. Autopoiesis is defined as self-generating, self-producing, self-maintaining organization, used to describe the resilience of a living system. This practicum presents autopoiesis as a process condition that describes incidences of phenomena and the resulting emergent behaviors. Through illustration, photography, simulation and experimental studies, an understanding of autopoiesis through visual representations was attained.

This practicum creates a space that uses the dynamics of autopoiesis to both inform and form the design of an urban condition. Located along the coast of Incheon, South Korea, a 1.6km2 site of reclaimed tidal-flat land was investigated. Autopoiesis was understood through phenomena and emergent behaviors that resulted by integrating the fluctuating tidal system into the creation, realization and functioning of the site.

The intention of this project is to articulate the notions of autopoiesis through the design of a flexible condition that responds, reacts and engages with contingencies and disturbances, allowing these types relationships to become integral component to the overall development and functioning of the designed site.