The intervention of the Ludlam Trail seeks to create a community space by superimposing a transect of south Florida’s rural fabric within the urban context. Through a composition of community gardens, members of the adjacent communities are able to interact, learn and reap from the varied functions of the gardens. The roofs of adjacent buildings are used to introduce rooftop garden and cafes, while function as water harvesting units to irrigate the ground level gardens.



Sustainable Approach

Economic: The community gardens provide several economic benefits for the users of the space. Individual members are able to subsidize some of their food costs by growing their own produce. Additionally, it can be a source of income if the harvests are sold at the local farmers markets, restaurants, cafes, etc. The 
commercial farmlands would be leased out to private businesses generating income for the trail and creating jobs for the local community.

Social: The design provides a wide variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Most importantly the gardens establish a sense of interaction, accountability and reciprocity with the members of the surrounding area. Creating greenhouses for the schools that border the trail provide “living” classrooms where students can learn about agriculture, proper diet and South Florida native species.

Environmental: Not only does the trail become a five mile long productive green space, but it also reduces storm water runoff which is then used for irrigation. Furthermore, the xeriscape gardens provide a leisure and educational component that raises awareness about water efficient landscapes.