CO-MIDA

A vertical garden system using 3D-printed clay modules, co-designed with the users, to grow plants in urban spaces where horizontal space is limited.

The Challenge

In rapidly growing urban environments, limited horizontal space for food production poses significant challenges for sustainability and urban resilience. The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for localised food production systems that minimise reliance on global supply chains. In response, innovative solutions are required to make urban areas not only more self-sufficient but also more environmentally sustainable.

Our Solution

CO-MIDA is an innovative, smart, modular vertical garden system designed to grow edible plants in dense urban areas. The system is co-designed with local users and employs 3D-printed clay modules, which can be installed on vertical surfaces, such as building facades, to maximise space utilisation. The vertical garden produces aromatic and edible plants while also generating electricity through a bio-photovoltaic system that harnesses energy from bacteria in the soil. By integrating plant growth and energy production, CO-MIDA addresses the dual challenges of sustainable food production and energy generation in cities.

Type of Project

An urban innovation project focused on developing a sustainable, modular vertical garden system that incorporates both food production and renewable energy generation. The project lies at the intersection of architecture, sustainable agriculture, and urban technology.

Tools and Framework

CO-MIDA integrates digital manufacturing, urban agriculture, and microbial fuel cells within its framework to create a system that can operate sustainably in urban environments. Through 3D printing technology, the project created clay modules that support plant growth and enhance biodiversity by providing habitats for urban fauna. The use of microbial fuel cells enables the production of electricity from the bacteria in the soil, making the system energy self-sufficient.

The Project

The CO-MIDA project developed a vertical garden system using 3D-printed clay modules, co-designed with the users, to grow plants in urban spaces where horizontal space is limited. The garden is designed to be installed on vertical surfaces, such as building facades, which increases the thermal insulation of the building and reduces energy consumption. The bio-photovoltaic technology incorporated into the garden allows the system to produce energy, which powers sensors that monitor plant health and environmental conditions in real time. The project involved a series of workshops with local communities to co-design the system, ensuring that it meets the specific needs of the users.

Our Contribution

IAAC’s Advanced Architecture Group led the development of the CO-MIDA project. The Institute’s contribution focused on integrating cutting-edge digital manufacturing techniques, sustainable materials, and bio-photovoltaic technology to create a modular and intelligent vertical garden system. The project demonstrates IAAC’s commitment to innovation in urban sustainability and food security.

Who is it for?

CO-MIDA is designed for urban planners, architects, community organisations, and residents interested in promoting sustainable food production, reducing energy consumption, and increasing biodiversity in urban environments. The project also targets academic researchers and city officials interested in implementing urban sustainability solutions that are both scalable and adaptable.

Pilot Cities

The project will take place in 9 pilot European cities, each looking to tackle location specific problems ranging from fostering local food productions, to reviving textile industries aiding in economic production. The pilot cities are Amsterdam, Barcelona, Milan, Paris, Copenhagen, Geneva, Blönduós, Tallinn and Zagreb.

Tools and Framework

Replication Potential

CO-MIDA’s modular and scalable design makes it adaptable to various urban environments, allowing it to be implemented in cities worldwide. The project has the potential to be replicated in cities with limited space for food production, supporting local food security and reducing environmental impacts. Additionally, by using vertical surfaces, CO-MIDA helps cities meet green space goals and improve the overall urban microclimate.

CO-MIDA’s documentation, including fabrication guides and co-maintenance guidelines, will be available online to facilitate replication and adaptation by other communities.