Ananas represents a bold approach to urban development that celebrates the agricultural, social, and ecological heritage of the Philippines. This new vision cultivates—within the context of an evolving urban district—an ecosystem that actively supports a more sustainable regional food network. By preserving the local region’s role and identity as Manila’s Food Basket, and drawing from the essential elements of Filipino culture, Ananas represents a wholly new paradigm of urban living.

The site is within the Ylang-Ylang River watershed draining from the upper rim of Taal Lake in a narrow band to Manila Bay. While a mix of forest and agriculture characterizes the upper watershed today, future development can greatly impact the water quality draining into Manila Bay

Neighboring developments have a poor public realm and lack a sense of place. They are disconnected from employment opportunities. Alternatively, Ananas seeks to reconfigure traditional relationships between farmland and urban development.

The plan seeks to reconfigure traditional relationships between farmland and urban development. A series of Pollinator Paths, linear community gardens with a range of plot types, are distributed within the plan so that every resident has access to an agricultural plot in less than a two-minute walk. This novel form of urban agriculture allows existing farmers to continue working the land while mentoring newer residents in local farming practices. Related community and agricultural programs, such as restaurants, markets, and a culinary school, are located immediately adjacent to the Pollinator Paths, creating further opportunities for economic development and innovation.

Integrated framework. The plan celebrates the agricultural, social, and ecological heritage of the site. It draws from essential elements of Filipino culture to cultivate — within the context of an evolving urban district — an ecosystem that actively supports a more sustainable regional food network.

A series of Pollinator Paths, linear community gardens with a range of plot types, are distributed within the plan so that every resident has access to an agricultural plot in less than a two-minute walk

A map of how pollinator paths connect different parts of the site

The pollinator paths support the agricultural production and are integrated to housing, commercial, and cultural uses

In-depth research of the local environment and ecology was used to support a comfortable microclimate at the neighborhood and building scales. A verdant, connected, and functional landscape network of agricultural plots, eco-corridors, and parks ensure the recharge of the region’s aquifer, while promoting walking and biking. Plazas, sidewalks and trails tie the natural landscape with civic, cultural and entertainment spaces allowing the community to connect with nature and with each other.

Garden swales function as wet gardens during the wet season, provide positive drainage for mounded root vegetables, and protect sensitive crops from excessive wind and evaporation during the dry season

Current agricultural practices on site rely on produce that can only be harvested once every two years. Proposed organic biointensive gardens provide a more active harvest cycle and greater biodiversity, and are tied to the region’s cultural calendar.