Sustainable Urban Landscapes: Topographic Armature on the Hillsides of Mexico City

In response to the challenges posed by informal urbanization, characterized by a lack of infrastructural provisions and open spaces that exacerbate social inequality in Mexico City, the project "Topographic Urban Expansion" introduces a transformative topographic landscape framework. This innovative design acts as an open space armature, managing informal growth while addressing the socio-economic and ecological needs of the population.

Addressing Informality with Sustainable Solutions

Over 90% of urban development since 1970 has occurred in the peripheries of Mexico City, with informal settlements accounting for 40% of the urban footprint. Many of these settlements have been established on hillsides, where land prices are significantly lower but are accompanied by challenges such as poor drainage, flooding risks, and urban subsidence due to aquifer over-extraction.

This project proposes a holistic approach to urban expansion, focusing on sustainable urban landscapes. By incorporating social, production, and nature nodes, the framework integrates essential amenities, such as water plazas, community gardens, and filtration spaces, into the urban fabric. These features not only provide critical resources but also promote environmental resilience.

A Landscape Armature for Future Growth

The design leverages the natural topography of Cerro El Pino, creating a sustainable blueprint for urban expansion:

• Hydraulic Buffer: Preserving and restoring 1.5 km² of vegetated areas to manage seasonal water flow and reduce flood risks.
• Social Nodes: Enhancing community interaction through self-built neighborhoods and public amenities.
• Production Nodes: Encouraging urban agriculture to meet food security needs for 150 families annually.
• Nature Nodes: Protecting native vegetation and creating recreational spaces to foster cultural and environmental awareness.

Visualizing the Future

Through detailed topographic models and landscape simulations, the project showcases how sustainable design can harmonize urbanization with the environment. Key features include water storage capacity, restored vegetation, and improved accessibility, ensuring a safer and more inclusive future for hillside communities.

Recognitions

This groundbreaking project by Qiwei Song was a shortlisted entry for the UnIATA '19 competition, highlighting its innovative approach to addressing urban challenges.