Through Thick and Thin
The Roman Agro is a site that has become dormant and obsolete as its aging residents spend their time in Rome for work and recreation. This urban proposal explores modes of reinvigorating the neighborhood of Valle Canestra by commoning land resources and creating a self-sufficient economy, freed of its dependence on Rome. Interstitial “barrier strips” that are used to emphasize private property lines are observed as a potential site of intervention. By thickening these boundaries and occupying them with programs like kitchen-gardens, the thin property lines can become a community resource that neighboring residents tend to and cultivate. Over time, architectural and urban elements are introduced to restitch fragmented enclaves within the site and densify the existing plots with migrants who assist with care.