Still breathing: the reinvention of [Green]market Square for the year 2100 into a pneumatic capsule and oxygen production plant in the Cape of Good Hope

Abstract

This dissertation reinvents the famous Greenmarket Square in Cape Town, to adapt to a dystopian future ridden with pollution in the year 2100. It is in essence an urban ‘green lung’ that provides a sanctuary to users through the architectural practice of escapism. It is due to mankind’s need for overconsumption and unsustainable environmental practices that this future bares many troubles, most importantly, the cloud of pollution that has engulfed the city and stripped the immediate atmosphere of oxygen and safe breathable air. This dire situation calls upon architecture to respond empathetically to unexplored spatial experiences to resemble mankind’s basic constituent of care. The aim of this dissertation begs the question of whether architecture can act as a catalyst for escapism in a future juxtaposed by the present, to create a warning against environmental injustices? Furthermore, can existing architectural techniques and materials be translated into a futuristic urban green lung? It is challenging to conceptualize what the future might be, however, this future may not be too far-fetched. It is thus paramount that architecture can identify current issues that will have future consequences to create proactive solutions and not reactive ones. I therefore believe that my dissertation adds value to the world of architecture as it challenges existing architectural techniques to adapt to a dystopian future. This intervention is further supported through theoretical concepts of escapism, satire, the relevance of memory, the uncanny and the relationship between technology and temporality. As this building is the first of its kind, similar precedent studies are not available, however, the precedents analysed, contains ideas that are similar to that of the oasis at greenmarket square in 2100. A new architectural typology rooted in present practices is developed to solve future problem. This building ensures the continuity of mankind and restores dignity to the beloved Greenmarket Square.