Living landscape in rural districts

Abstract

Abstract

This master’s thesis is a feasibility study to explores how residential areas can be planned in a more diverse and sustainable way. It integrates two growing global trends: alternative housing with sharing strategies and personal cultivation, often referred to as urban agriculture. Both strategies are fostering greater social interactions and intend to reduce the need for private transportation and consumption, thereby contributing positively to a more sustainable society.

The study highlights the necessity for varied housing options to address social, environmental, and economic challenges, addressing a global challenge, rooted in local planning practises. Norwegian residential areas have experienced the same international trend of being designed with limited variation in character and identity. While planning based on fixed patterns and specific target groups can be efficient and profitable, it often results in car-based suburbs, loss of natural qualities and contributes to social segregation.

The chosen location for this feasibility study is “Gullaughalvøya,” a peninsula in central Norway, approximately a 40-minute drive from the capital. The penninsula is planned as a new residential area and the developers have faced criticism for a dense and uniform planning approach.

By incorporating sharing strategies and personal agriculture, this proposal aims to create a dynamic and living landscape that promotes interactions between people, as well as between species. It also prioritizes preserving the site’s unique character and protecting its existing environment. This consideration is crucial in all planning contexts, especially in coastal zones. The peninsula also borders a vulnerable nature reserve that will face heavy disturbance from two major developments in the near future, making the protection of existing nature particularly important.

The result of this study shows how co-housing concepts and personal agriculture can play a vital role in making more inclusive societies with stronger community bonds. Furthermore it highlights the importance to integrate what already exist in the planning to avoid loss of character and biodiversity.