Historically the city and agriculture have been seen as places apart. In this inaugural lecture the case was made that architecture and agriculture could better co-exist in a new relationship that recognises their interdependencies and potential for creating more desirable, sustainable and comprehensible environments.
Presenting the concept of “Continuous Productive Urban Landscapes (CPULs)”, it referenced a body of design-led research including design propositions, installations, prototypes, field work, exhibitions, environmental impact assessments and publications.
Professor Viljoen told the story of his contribution to this body of work, developed collaboratively over many years with research partner Katrin Bohn. In 2010, this research informed the United Nations University’s Institute of Advanced studies thinking about design strategies that could enhance urban biodiversity and in 2015, this work won Bohn and Viljoen the international Royal Institute of British Architects President’s award for outstanding university-located research.