Farm & Market, a new restaurant located in Denver’s RiNo Art District, is revolutionizing the culinary scene by incorporating hydroponic farming into its operations. The restaurant, which officially opened on September 16, features a 3,000-square-foot on-site hydroponic farm that will produce 100,000 pounds of produce per year. With a goal of addressing water scarcity and reducing the carbon footprint of the fresh produce supply chain, Farm & Market utilizes less than 10% of the water used in traditional farming and is 100% wind-powered and chemical-free.
In addition to the hydroponic farm, Farm & Market offers a produce market selling 50 varieties of plants, which will be harvested daily. The restaurant aims to create its own style of plant-forward dining, with chef-crafted salads, bowls, soups, and starters that take advantage of the farm’s fresh produce.
The building housing Farm & Market underwent a renovation to adapt its existing 1938 structure for this innovative concept. Breedlove Capital, the investment firm and building owner, engaged OZ Architecture to design the renovation plans while preserving the building’s historic footprint and character. The renovated building now features a front door and new glazing along the street, as well as rooftop access for marketgoers to enjoy views of Denver’s skyline.
Inside the building, the design team at OZ faced the challenge of creating a working hydroponic farm within the urban space. They succeeded in making the farm visible to the public, incorporating transparency into the design to showcase the high-tech nature of the hydroponic growing system. The design also allows for direct access to the harvested produce, connecting consumers with the farm-to-table experience.
Farm & Market is not just a restaurant but a visionary culinary experience that combines urban living with sustainable farming. By prioritizing local, fresh produce and implementing innovative design, the concept aims to redefine the way people connect with their food.
Sources:
– Amanda Johnson, Principal / Interiors – LEED AP, OZ Architecture