Mist-ified

In the year 2050, Quito introduces a cloud forest like ecosystem to help clean and retain water within the city limits, lowering the pressures on the virgin cloud forests which border the city. This novel ecosystem supports the needs of both humans and wildlife within its boundaries, creating a Mist District along the upper elevations of the city.

The Mist District is anchored by mist walls that alter the topography to maximize views and retain fog. The mist wall is a fully vegetated gabion system with fog emitters dispersed along its length, mimicking the high level of vertical vegetation in the cloud forest and the role it plays in water collection and creation. The walls collect and transport water to underground storage tanks, which support the functions of nearby buildings. Spaces within the district use a variety of sun and fog conditions to enhance the sensory experiences of residents and visitors. The Mist District enmeshes a forest with an unmanaged urban fabric to create an environment that provides an essential resource to its inhabitants and reconnects them to the unique character of their city.

Architect Partners: Cath Kanter & Meg Bunke

Instructors: Hope Hasbrouck & David Heymann