An architectural thesis on integrating insights from a participatory process focused on urban, living, and commercial cultures of different social groups and actors in Recife to strengthen development plans for Pagode do Didi in Santo Antonio for a more inclusive social mix.
Recife shines with culture but is shadowed by deep social and economic inequalities, rooted in its history of colonialism, slavery, and rapid urbanisation. This thesis explores how Recife’s vibrant culture can be harnessed as a tool to address these disparities and drive social and spatial transformation, focusing on urban, living, and commercial cultures.
The city centre, plagued by vacancy and crime, is characterised by a monofunctional landscape of commerce and offices, with few residents living there. Many people from different classes work here but do not necessarily interact. However, areas like Pagode do Didi still shine bright cultural vibrancy and potential for revitalisation. This research aims to integrate the gathered insights into the upcoming development plans for retrofit housing projects, both social housing and middle-class housing, ordered by the city, in the area of Pagode do Didi.
Utilising a combination of desk research and participatory action research, the study investigates the origins of inequality in Recife, gathers key insights, and explores culture through art. It examines three types of culture—urban, living, and commercial—through field observations, informal conversations, interviews, and participatory activities. These comprehensive insights are then incorporated into development plans, organised into seven key themes: The Dangers of Retrofit, Safe Space, The Power of Urban Art, The Power of Community, Revitalising Public Space, Mixed-Use Development, and a Zoom-In.
Concluding with a visual manifesto, the thesis seeks to inspire action towards creating a more inclusive social mix. By placing culture at the core of urban development, the research shows that culture can be a powerful catalyst for transformative change, attempting to help different communities coexist and thrive together in one area.