Abstract
This paper explores the use of scenarios building as a resource for structuring the urban project process in a complex and open perspective in a design approach. It is based on a case study of the Lapa neighborhood in the city of Rio de Janeiro, in Brazil and is the product of an ongoing research theme on public policies and territory at the Urban and Regional Graduate Program (PROPUR) of Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul (UFRGS). The method proposed includes the problematization of the project by scenarios vis-a-vis the space syntax analyses in order to establish the common points, as well as to generate data about accessibility and spatial integration. The intersection of these methodological approaches point out to the possibilities of syntax theory used toward the structuring of project process based on scenarios building by design. In doing so, we consider the following criteria: the local-global relationship; social integration; strategic dialogues; and co-responsibility on decision-making and new structures of governance. The main interest is to bring together for examination at the level of ideas distinct scenarios, as mental constructo drawn from social processes in order to highlight their differences and uncover distinct courses of action as guidelines for the project. The space syntax theory allows to link scenarios building by design from an imagery plan to a topological dimension of urban space. Keywords: territory by design, urban project by scenarios, space syntax, Brazilian cities.
Highlights
The understanding of the city as an unfolding of conflicts and negotiations between different actors allows distinct approaches, and effective interlinked interventions related to social practices have to be based on the historicity of the urban space built
The action of urban design does not reflect this, because of the widespread use of a concept of space based on the vision previously built of a “vocation”, a “spirit of place” or even an “essence” that has been translated as a unique design option
Current project praxis of urban design goes on drawing ideas from theoretically unchallenged visions such as a “genius loci” and the architect assumes as guidelines for the urban project a single set of uncritical concepts often drawn from common sense
Summary
The understanding of the city as an unfolding of conflicts and negotiations between different actors allows distinct approaches, and effective interlinked interventions related to social practices have to be based on the historicity of the urban space built. Due to the many interests present in the urban realm the search for the best option involves the embodiment of various possibilities and expliciting them by means of a design solution This can occur by structuring the project-problem in some possible solutions that can be expressed by scenarios. The validity of this case is the dialogue about the future that is authorized by the scenarios to what place can derive a transformation in the present situation and can lead to a change in this structured mental model.
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