OffTheFarm – Folks is proud to be among the shortlisted finalist teams for the RCA Grand
Challenge 2024/25, London—the world’s largest single-institution postgraduate design
project. This recognition highlights the team’s commitment to designing innovative,
sustainable, and community-driven solutions that address contemporary urban challenges.
Project Name: OffTheFarm-Folks
Studio Name: OSA Studio
Team: Calvin Calica, Daksh Goel, Shaokai Chen, Shania Firdaus, Liangxin Chen
In an era where urban expansion and commercial developments threaten traditional
marketplaces, OffTheFarm – Folks presents a dynamic alternative. The project introduces a
network of mobile, foldable carts that deliver farm-fresh produce directly to consumers
while revitalizing underutilized public spaces. By merging sustainability with mobility, the
team seeks to create an adaptable market model that ensures accessibility, economic
opportunity, and environmental responsibility.
Addressing Urban Shifts in Market Culture
Newham, one of London’s most diverse boroughs, has a long history of vibrant markets that serve as cultural and economic hubs. However, recent urban transformations, including the expansion of large-scale commercial centers such as Westfield Stratford, have placed traditional markets under significant strain. The decline of spaces like Stratford Centre, Queen’s Market, and Stratford Market Village has raised concerns about the future of independent vendors and the communities they serve.
OffTheFarm – Folks responds to this challenge by proposing a flexible, mobile market system that adapts to changing urban landscapes. Rather than relying on fixed infrastructure, the project empowers vendors with the tools to move freely, bringing fresh food and local products directly to consumers in high-footfall areas.
A Modular and Sustainable Approach
At the core of the project is a fleet of foldable, modular carts, designed to be lightweight,
transportable, and environmentally friendly. These carts are made from recycled and
upcycled materials, reinforcing the team’s dedication to sustainable design. Their mobility
allows for dynamic market setups in parks, transit hubs, and public squares, transforming
dormant spaces into thriving economic and cultural centers.
