Olivia Saed-Billingsly
In the face of the ongoing housing crisis in Los Angeles, exacerbated by skyrocketing rents and limited affordable housing options, this thesis proposes a visionary approach to urban development in the neighborhood of Central Alameda, South Central California. Drawing inspiration from "The Wealth of the Commons" by David Bollier and Silke Helfrich, the project, aptly named Burgundy Earth, aims to reimagine cities as hubs of sustainability and community. This thesis argues that through integrating regenerative farming, affordable housing, and communal living, Burgundy Earth emerges as a contemporary commons, distinct from traditional Section 8 housing projects. It seeks to address the multifaceted challenges of the housing crisis while fostering environmental stewardship and holistic development.
The choice of Los Angeles as the focus of this thesis stems from the acute housing crisis gripping the city. With rising homelessness and escalating rents, the need for innovative solutions to provide affordable, dignified housing is more pressing than ever. Central Alameda, situated within the larger context of South Central California, embodies the complex dynamics of urban development and social equity. By selecting this location, the thesis aims to confront the realities of inequality and displacement, while also exploring opportunities for sustainable, community-driven solutions.
Contrary to conventional public housing projects, Burgundy Earth emphasizes inclusivity, dignity, and empowerment. It rejects the stigmatization often associated with affordable housing developments, instead positioning itself as a beacon of progress and possibility. The project's name, Burgundy Earth, embodies this ethos. It evokes a sense of warmth, stability, and rootedness, fitting for an affordable housing project. The term "Burgundy" adds a touch of elegance and richness, counterbalancing any preconceptions about affordability and underscoring the project's commitment to providing high-quality living spaces for all.
Furthermore, Burgundy Earth engages deeply with the principles outlined in "The Wealth of the Commons." Bollier and Helfrich's work emphasizes the importance of reclaiming shared resources and fostering cooperative governance. By intertwining these principles with the project's design and implementation, Burgundy Earth seeks to create not just a housing development, but a vibrant community space where residents actively participate in decision-making and stewardship of common resources.
Through its holistic approach to urban development, Burgundy Earth envisions a future where cities serve as models of sustainability, equity, and resilience. By blending architecture with nature and promoting communal living, the project offers a compelling alternative to the status quo, demonstrating that affordable housing can be both environmentally friendly and socially enriching. As cities grapple with the urgent challenges of the twenty-first century, Burgundy Earth stands as a testament to the transformative power of visionary thinking and collective action.
