Starting from program definition and design, Epistemy has enabled JNC International (a Brussels based firm) to create a sustainable infrastructure plan. We designed, led, and conducted a co-creation workshop with Brussels based JNC International and the founders and prospective residents of the new City of Rahamim (Cidade Rahamim) for this project of creating a new urban community in Brazil. Further, we have been engaged for the ongoing program management work, in coordinating the work packages and deliverables of the 100-person team located across Europe and Brazil.
The work on this project includes a top-down or ‘directive’ approach to the design framework, while a more user-engaging ‘emergent’ approach incorporate co-creation methods and techniques from the final residents of this community. The sustainable strategy for this project includes a strong environmental element, involving bio-digestor technology for waste management, as well as renewable resources (specific types of wood) being used for the construction of the residences. In addition, there is a social element to it by involving local communities who will be living here in terms of auto-sustainable living infrastructure and promotion of lifestyle businesses utilizing local skills and locally developed competences.
The work on this project includes a top-down or ‘directive’ approach to the design framework, while a more user-engaging ‘emergent’ approach incorporate co-creation methods and techniques from the final residents of this community. The sustainable strategy for this project includes a strong environmental element, involving bio-digestor technology for waste management, as well as renewable resources (specific types of wood) being used for the construction of the residences. In addition, there is a social element to it by involving local communities who will be living here in terms of auto-sustainable living infrastructure and promotion of lifestyle businesses utilizing local skills and locally developed competences.