Garden suburb: path and reinterpretations of an ideal: London, Paris and São Paulo

Abstract

ABSTRACT This article explores the path of the reformist concept of garden suburb. It covers the initial idea in England to its dissemination and later re-appropriation in France and in Brazil. The project of Hampstead in London resulted from the studies of Raymond Unwin, who associated the garden suburb model with a national code regulating the occupation of areas for urban sprawl. In France, the model was reinterpreted by members of the Musée Social and Henri Sellier and was also employed for urban expansion with the construction of several cités-jardins providing affordable housing for the working population. In Brazil, the model’s reinterpretation would stem from Unwin and Barry Parker, with the construction of garden suburbs for urban expansion areas. The article points out the importance of the garden suburb model and its replicability, given its association with environmental preservation and healthy housing.