Removing Boundaries. Social, architectural and urban strategy for informal settlements

R e m o v i n g

B o u n d a r i e s

Year 5 Thesis by Karolina Petruskeviciute University of Strathclyde , Glasgow, United Kingdom in collaboration with UPSA, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia Santa Cruz de la Sierra/ Glasgow 2017/2018

a b s t r a c t

This thesis research 5A and proposal 5B is highly related to my interest in urban environment and social dimension interaction and mutual influences between each other. For my undergraduate dissertation I have analysed urban context in post-socialist countries and districts called ´ mikrorayon´ - neighborhoods formed by high rise block buildings, which nowadays rather look like deteriorated social ghettos. Mikrorayon neighborhoods´planning layouts and high rise block buildings reflect 20th century modern urban principles which is considered to be a failure setting seeds for a number of social problems and lowered life-quality for residents. Dissertation research allowed me to grasp the importance between people and their built environment, participatory approach and ownership sense and that pleasant and maintained districts and urban places are the result of collective contribution and natural evolution.

This conclusion, that can be expressed by Jane Jacobs words ¨Cities have the capability of providing something for everybody, only because, and only when they are created by everybody¨ is my thesis leading idea which I tried to apply to social, urban and architectural strategy diminishing the boundary between informal settlements and formal city.

As the urban population continues to grow, especially in the Global South, and 20th century modern urban and architectural principles, addressing social and mass housing, is considered as a failure, the need to find an alternative solution for sustainable and equal districts and urban environment development in growing cities is a significant and worldwide issue.

Due to that, I have decided to analyse informal settlements as these areas are created by people, with no or very little income, aspiring to satisfy the primary human need- to have a shelter and feel safe. Even though informal settlements districts have a number of negative features- as lack of access to basic services, potable water, sewage system, electricity, access, inadequate housing, insuffiecient living space- positive attributes, such as open grid, flexibility, participatory, sense of community, adaptability and interchangeability- offer opportunities which are lost in large scale one-stop projects. More importantly, informal urban structures can be related to the traditional city, considering the fact that organic patterns have emerged over time and preserved social networks by community participation.

Considering above mentioned issues, my postgraduate thesis will explore architectural-urban solution which could resolve existing problems and lead to informal city’s integration to formal and, most importantly, would improve residents living conditions and quality.

01

O v e r v i e w Urban Future...............................................................................................................................8 Latin America...........................................................................................................................10 Bolivia...........................................................................................................................................12 Santa Cruz de la Sierra........................................................................................................16 Problem Statement..............................................................................................................20

02

St r at e gy A p p r o ac h Selected Features From the Case Studies.................................................................23 Public Space............................................................................................................................24 Community and Participation......................................................................................25 Performance............................................................................................................................26 Incremental Growth.............................................................................................................28 Favela Rocinha.......................................................................................................................29 Architectural and Urban Concepts...............................................................................30 Vernacular Architecture.....................................................................................................31 Urban Acupuncture..............................................................................................................32 Adaptable Architecture......................................................................................................33

03

S t r a t e g y Social, Architectural and Urban Tools......................................................................37 Removing Boundaries between Informal and Formal Cities........................40 Social, Architectural and Urban Strategy................................................................42 Phases..........................................................................................................................................44

04

D i s t r i c t

a n a ly s i s

Place Properties.....................................................................................................................48 District Properties................................................................................................................50 UV 166 Neighborhood.........................................................................................................52 Built Environment.................................................................................................................54 Population Growth Analysis............................................................................................56 Demographical information............................................................................................60 Conclusion..................................................................................................................................61

05

06

i l lu s t r at i v e n a r r at i v e Current Condition.................................................................................................................66 Phase 1 Community Hub................................................................................................................80 Urban Strategy.....................................................................................................................94 Phase 2 Resource and Production Cycle.................................................................................100 Community Hub...............................................................................................................102 Residential Unit................................................................................................................114 Urban Strategy..................................................................................................................116 Phase 3 Community Hub...............................................................................................................120 Learning center and Network...................................................................................136 Urban Strategy.................................................................................................................140 Phase 4 Community Hub...............................................................................................................144 Urban Strategy.................................................................................................................158

conclusion Thesis Strategy Summary ............................................................................................161 List of Figures......................................................................................................................162

Bibliography.........................................................................................................................164

“Al l c i t i es star t in m u d.”

Robert Neuwirth, 2005

01 O V E R V I E W The world is becoming URBAN as majority of the world´s population resides in the cities.

People tend to migrate and occupy vacant lands by creating informal settlements. However, living conditions and built environment quality are considered to be very low. What is an appropriate strategy integrating informal settlements and leading to sustainable urban development considering , that 20 th century modern urban principles are considered to be a failure setting social problems and lowering life quality for the residents?

The following chapter analyses urban population and migration to the cities issues worldwide and in Bolivia, as the thesis research and proposal is located in this country.

Urban Future Our planet is becoming urban as more and more people start to reside in the cities consequently leading to the rapid global urbanization rates. According to the ‘Making Room for the Planet of Cities’ author Sholo Angel, “At present rates, the world’s urban population is expected to double in 43 years while urban land cover will double in only 19 years” (Angel, Sh., 2011) and 66% of the World’s population is expected to live in urban areas by 2050 ( Nations, U.,2014).

tion, and electricity- and,according to Alfredo Brillembourg, almost 1 billion people live with insecure tenure rights and the constant threat of eviction.

However, the majority of urban processes in developing world are associated with informality and poor squatter illegal settlements which often are understood as a direct manifestation of this urbanization. At the moment, 33 % percent of urban dwellers in the world live in the informal settlements- with lack of infrastructure, access, running water, sanita-

However, as developing world urbanization is usually associated with slums and informal settlements, it evokes a negative reaction.

Nonetheless, I believe that informal settlements are the primary stage of naturally developing urban environment and the words

by Robert Neuwirth “All cities start in mud ” perfectly supports this statement.

For the past 50 years majority of the urban processes were taking place in developing world – Global South- especially in the countries of Latin America, Africa, Central and South Asia, and, according to Sholo Angel, “the urban population of the developing countries is expected to double between 2000 and 2030 while the built-up area of their cities can be expected to triple.”( Angel, Sh., 2011)

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

Considering above mentioned trends, numbers and statistics, it is clear that the urban growth and poor squatter illegal settlements are a significant issue nowadays and in the future it’s importance will only grow. Moreover, as much of the urban growth of the 21st century is taking place in the developing world, (Roy, A. 2005) urban sociologist Douglas Massey (2001) states, that the urban future lies neither in Chicago nor Los Angeles, it instead lies in the“ Third World” cities like Rio de Janeiro, Mumbai, Hong Kong and that it is necessary to pay attention to the urban transformations of the developing world as now it is seen “ as a generalized mode of metropolitan urbanization.” (Roy, A. 2005)

fig. 1. countries with urban population exceeding 100.000 in 2012.

(5a diagram)

fig. 2. countries with urban population exceeding 100.000 by 2050.

(5a diagram)

Latin America

As mentioned previously, the majority of the urban transformations in the future will happen in the Developing World and over the past 50 years the traumatic, radical and uncontrolled urbanization has transformed cityscapes in Latin America. Nowadays this continent is considered to be the most urbanized region in the world with 80 percent of its population living in the cities, which is even the higher proportion than the group of the most developed countries.

Modern urban planning principles and strategies did not manage to cope with the massive rural migration flow and rapid population growth. Due to that, the majority of the cities are struggling to cope with the deterioration of the environment, and, most significantly, deep social inequality. (Un-Habitat, 2012).

Government’s unavailability to control and house rural migrants led to creation of informal settlements where new-comers have willingly constructed their own illegal accomodation. Informal settlements, previously ignored by the authorities, house majority of the urban poor and plays a significant economic role.

As Leonardo Robleto explains, “the informal urban phenomenon should be regarded as one of the most important characteristics of * Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

modern urban development because of the impact it has on the landscape, environment, social components, existing cities, and infrastructure.

To sum up, rapid urbanization in South American cities created a contrasting division between the residents as well as social inequality. The gap between rural migrants, living in favelas or barrios and the local elite families, representing the middle class, is enormous.

This social segregation is reflected in the urban fabric and public spaces. Latin American cities remain the most the most unequal, ‘strongly dual, divided on the planet. (UN-Habitat, 2012:12) and struggle to deal with chaos, informality and social inequality.

fig. 3.1 Top image on following page. La Paz cityscape. Author´s photography fig. 3.2 Top image on the following page. Favela Rocinha in Rio de Janeiro. Author´s photography

B o l i v i a The thesis research about the urban population growth, caused by rural migrants and the appearance of informal settlements was concluded in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the economic capital of Bolivia. While taking part on postgraduate exchange and living in this city for 5 months, I had an opportunity to experience and witness the rapid urban transformation and social inequality factors which are exposed in the built environment.

In my opinion, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the most suitable city for this thesis research and proposal as nowadays it is experiencing urban and social changes which were affecting other, more developed countries in Latin America – like Brasil, Argentina, Chile- 50 years ago. Also, by being less developed, Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Bolivia, in general, is backwards regarding urbanization, infrastructure, economic and political development.

Due to that, my thesis proposal, aspiring to reduce the boundary between informal settlements and the formal city, can apply the learned lessons and use the references from successful and failed strategies in other Latin American cities.

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

A detailed analysis about Bolivia, country´s context and facts, related to location, population, political situation urban growth and migration patterns are provided in thesis 5A research booklet.

To summarise previous semester research, Bolivia is a rapidly developing country in South America. Country is very diverse culturally and an approximately 60% of the population identify as being part of an indigenous ethnicity, creating a diverse cultural mix within the country.

Another important issue is extremely high political tension in the country as some people support Evo Morales government and others not. The country is separated politically and indigenous groups, living in the Andean region, support current president´s government while people living in the lowlands are against it.

Moreover, country currently experiences rapid migration from the rural areas to the urban districts. Due to that, Bolivia´s urban landscape in the last 50 years transformed dramatically.

Migration to the urban areas is the main reason for informal settlements appearance as migrants come to the city and seek for a land occupation.

In addition, Bolivia is one of the poorest country in Latin America. The country suffers from extremely high levels of poverty and social inequality.

fig. 4. Bolivia´s location and country´s topography Author´s image

To summarise, Bolivia is a developing country currently facing many challenges in various aspects: poverty, social inequality, migration, rapid urbanisation and political crisis.

fig. 5. People and social problems in Bolivia.

Author´s image

S A N TA C RU Z D E L A S I E R R A

Santa Cruz de la Sierra for my thesis research was chosen as the city currently is experiencing significant growth and all problems which accompany extreme urbanization processes: urban sprawl, informal settlements, economy and inequality issues.

Santa Cruz de la Sierra is a rapidly emerging city in Santa Cruz Department, Bolivia. This city is the most popular place for internal migrants across Bolivia and also a new economic capital. The 2001 Census shows that Santa Cruz de la Sierra was the most popular place in terms of historic migration with 494 148 residents having come from Cochabamba and Chuquisaca alone. Immense migration is followed by ethnical diversity, social inequality and an overall chaos in the city.

However, the later country’s (Bolivia’s) development and urbanisition give an opportunity to integrate particular design approaches and planning solutions which were discovered and tested in other neighborhood Latin American cities. In particularly I am interested in Urban Acupuncture actions and how a network of urban interventions could address informal settlements and their integration to the cityscape, problem.

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

fig. 6. Migration to the city. Author´s image

U r b a n i z at i o n P ro c e s s e s i n S a n ta C ruz In the past half century, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, the capital of the department of Santa Cruz, Bolivia, has experiencied rapid growth.From an isolated frontier town, with population of 42,000 people in 1950, has transformed to the center of the country’s major production zone and largely overtaken financial capital position and became most important economic pole in the Country. Regional economic growth has attracted rural migrants from poorer Andean regions over the past fifty years which resulted in urban expansion as Santa Cruz de la Sierra became the 14th fastest growing city in the world and 1st in all South America. Fast urbanisation caused social, economical and environmental problems, as goverment was unable to control rapid pace growth and city planners adopted modernist principles have failed, as Santa Cruz never became the ‘garden city’ as its city builders envisioned. * Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

fig. 7. Santa cruz de la sierra development history. Author´s image

Migrants from the Andean highlands and the rural eastern lowlands, seeking to escape from extreme poverty and have the better education or employment opportunities, started claiming space beyond urban core. Contrary, high status, and established families are associated with central part of the city.

Many districts that illegally developed outside the urban core fit the United Nations’ criteria for slums.

People in these communities live in the very poor conditions or extreme poverty. Areas are lacking secure tenure and basic services such as improved water, sanitation, and electricity.

New residential districts typically start out when migrants occupy vacant lots, without houses or amenities. Newcomers build a one-room structure, gradually adding rooms. Informal settlements develop in a low-density manner as people tend to occupy large plots of land. Due to that, Santa Cruz de la Sierra is experiencing urban sprawl, political, social and economic problems as transport system around the city is chaotic and generates a lot of pollution, majority buildings constructed by urban poor are very low quality and lack necessary amenities.

P R O B L E M S TAT E M E N T Over the last fifty years, Santa Cruz de la Sierra experienced a significant increase in population as well as urban explosion. Economic growth attracted migrants from Andean highlands and rural eastern lowlands as they people are seeking for better living conditions, employment and education opportunities. However, newcomers tend to settle down in vacant lots illegally and live in the poorly developed environment with no access to water and electricity. By forming urban poor majority migrants are experiencing social inequalities issues and poverty.

Inequality between ‘elite’ Santa Cruz residents and newcomers as well raises ethnic and racial tensions within the cityscape. In this context, urban space is more than a neutral background; rather, it plays a central role in the interaction, integration, and segregation of urban society (Massey 1994; Ruddick 1996).

Considering mentioned inequality and informality issues which were caused by urban expansion, a number of questions arises: -how to integrate newcomers in the city -how to reduce social and inequality tensions -how to diminish boundary between formal and informal cities - how to improve living conditions in informal settlements

The following chapters of this booklet will try to propose a solution – social, architectural and urban strategy, which helps to remove the boundary between informal settlements and formal city. An universal prototype strategy is developed based on in-depth case studies analysis and research. The strategy prototype is applied to one of the poorest district in Santa Cruz de la Sierra and illustrated through the visual narrative.

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

fig. 8. Problems in the city.Socal inequality, informal settlements and an overall chaos. Author´s image

02

Strategy approach

The thesis social, urban and architectural strategy, integrating informal settlements and leading to the sustainable development, has been influenced by a number of social design projects and architectural practices activities in Global South as well as visiting Favela Rocinha in Rio de Janeiro and talking with the local people about recently built social amenities.

After the detailed research, I have selected the main project features and successful approaches. As majority of the projects focus on architectural and urban interventions process rather than the final built result, case studies analysis do not present precise architectural form examples. Contrary, it represents concepts, approaches and prototypes, which are descirbed in the following chapter.

s e l e c t e d f e at u r e s f r o m the case studies

fig. 9. Public space importance. Author´s image

P u b l i c

S p a c e

Tapis Rouge Public Space in Port-au-Prince, Haiti designed by EVA architectural studio.

Project was initiated by Global Communities and funded by American Red Cross organization.

The project aim was to develop multifunctional spaces that promote and facilitate social empowerment. Local people representing community were engaged to participate in the design process and building. The goal of this approach was to increase the sense of

ownership, identity and price within the community as well as tackle some social problems as reducing crime, violence and antisocial behaviour in the area.

To sum up, this project allows to understand the importance of the accessible public space for the community as people need a space to gather, to interact and take part in different activities. Efficient public space, accessible to everyone and supporting different age group activities, is an essential amenity, gathering people and empowering the community.

Community and Participation

Arquitectura Expandida is an architectural organisation leading various type temporary and permanent projects in Columbia’s poor neighborhoods. Organisation promote community participation and engagement in creating self-built public use amenities. By using local and recycled materials, people transform the local neighborhoods by ‘inserting’ alternative gathering and entertainment spaces like collective performance venues, cinemas and sport fields for the youth.

Moreover, this organisation run workshops and provides a range type of playful activities for the youngest ones to engage adults as parents will accompany their children and will be engaged to participate in community activities.

To conclude, the Arquitectura Expandida approach and projects, promoting community participation and vernacular architecture, has proved that budget is not essential to improve built environment as long as local communities are motivated to do it themselves. By using simple and smart engagement techniques this organisation ‘activates’ communities and improves the life quality.

fig. 10. Community participation in building process. Author´s image

fig. 11. Stage. Author´s image

p e r f o r m a n c e The Studios Kabako Kisangani founder choreographer and director Faustin Linyekula says that The most important infrastructure is the human infrastructure. This idea is reflected in his studio approach – ‘to help local communities to imagine an alternative to the hardships of daily life, and understand that they can have a hand in creating a better future’ he use different tools – dance, theather and music.

Studio Kabako provides facilities for local community to express themselves through the art and performance. Moreover, it offers programs for the youth so teenagers are occupied after the school hours. Some community members developed great performing skills and became part of the Linyekula’s touring group or created their own touring projects, produced by Studios Kabako.

Additionally, Faustin Linyekula promotes urban acupuncture by using vacant rural sites for organising performances in more disconnected neighborhoods.

The studio uses different tools—among these, dance, theater, and music—to help local communities imagine an alternative to the hardships of daily life, and understand that they can have a hand in creating a better future.

To sum up, I truly agree with Faustin Linyekula words that human infrastructure is the most important infrastructure. Human shape and build their envirorment, moreover, successful projects are the ones which engage people and are used by them. In addition, the Studios Kabako activities allow communities to benefit culturally, to ‘feed their souls’ and share their cultural background which connects the community.

The similar approach, promoting performance and creative activities are used in Grupo Cultural AfroReggae movement in Rio de Jainero Favelas, established by former drug trafficker Anderson Sá. The movement activities are represented in an award winning documentary movie ‘Favela Rising’. AfroReggae movement provides workshops focusing on dance, recycling, performing, music and sports to prevent youth to get involved in drugs and gang violence.

Incremental Growth PREVI is an experimental housing estate in Lima, Peru is a legendary project as it marked the shift from modernistic (high rise housing block estates) approach to deal with the social housing to affordable neighborhoods on a human scale that are adaptable and walkable.

PREVI “... celebrates the evolutionary, organic nature of informal settlements, that ethos has now been embraced by a new generation of socially motivated architects.” (McGuirk, J. 2015:79) PREVI (Proyecto experimental de Vivienda) started as an international competition, organised by Peru President, Fernando de Belaunde, a former architect, in 1966. Competition aim was to solve the city’s housing problem and it was sponsored by the Government of Peru and United Nations.

The brief was to design high-density and low-cost housing units in conjunction with community facilities such as schools, sports centers, services and infrastructure, housing a community of 1500 families. Another aspect of the brief was that housing units themselves were to be expandable.

In 1970 Competition Judges struggled to pick project consisting nearly 500 houses to test the performance of all the entries. “PREVI became an anomaly: a housing laboratory containing so many design ideas, so diverse and adaptable, that it can probably never be repeated.”( McGuirk, J. 2015:74)

The genius idea of PREVI, which can be applied to my thesis design proposal, is an opportunity for incremental growth, or, as Justin McGuirk states design “... as a platform for change”. PREVI set a framework for an expansion, evicted one of the key principles of the barriadas, which is that a house is a process and not a static object.

fig. 12. Incremental growth. Author´s image

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

Half a House. Quinta Monroy Alejandro Aravena, the principal of the Santiago-based practice Elemental, brought back to life PREVI principle of the organic evolution in a social housing project Quinta Monroy. Project task was to accommodate 100 families living in a 30-year old slum, using subsidy of USD $ 7,500. Aravena’s answer to the problem was to build each family half of a good house, the half they would not be able to do on their own: concrete structure, roof, kitchen and bathroom. The total living aread on the first stage would only be 30 square metres. However, the houses were arranged with the voids between them, so that when they had a little extra cash the families could extend, adding extra rooms until they had a sixty-square-meter house. Another aspect of Quinta Monroy social housing solution is it’s profitability, in other words, value increase over time. Architect Alejandro Aravena looks seems it as an investment for the residents. According to this model, the housing can be used to ask for loans which could help poor people to start a small business, to pay for better education and even enable social mobility. * Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

fig. 13. Community maintained facility in the favela. Author´s image

Fav e l a Ro c i n h a While visiting Rio de Janeiro, I decided not to miss an opportunity to visit favela Rocinha which is known as the largest and most famous slum in Brazil. According to the Census 2010, the population in Rocinha was 100, 000, however, unofficial estimates say it has up to 180,000.

The main reason to visit this favela was to observe informal architectural patterns which have emerged throughout the long period of time. Due to the boundaries settled by the landscape conditions, the main tendency for houses is to ‘grow up’ rather than ‘spread around’. People tend to add new levels stacking on top of other buildings and some of the houses are 7, 8, 9 or even 11 stories tall.

Before the World’s Cup Championship and Rio Olympic Games, Favela Rocinha received municipality attention and few projects aiming to improve the life quality in the favela were developed. However, articles about the projects in the media contradicts to local people narrations. According to locals, when the crisis hit Rio de Janeiro, build amenities became empty and not maintained.

To sum up, considering this issue, I assume that facilities orientatied to the community should be lead and maintained by the local community and not city municipality. In this case, people will be engaged to look after and invest their time and energy in public use facilities.

Architectural and urban concepts

fig. 14. Vernacular architecture. Author´s image

Vernacular Architecture Thesis design strategy promotes vernacular architecture as it encourages to use locally available materials. This approach allows to develop new construction material industries which can create local employment opportunities and improve the economy. Moreover, community members can learn new building skills and apply them for improving their living environment.

Vernacular Architecture approach was used in projects developed by famous and an award winning KERE Architecture practice in Africa and COMUNAL: Taller de Arquitectura studio in Mexico.

For example, in Gando Primary School project designed by Kere Architecture, a clay/mud hybrid was used as the main construction material in order to maximise results with the minimal resources available. As clay is available in the region it was used in the housing construction traditionally and over the time local people have developed clay-building techniques.

Architects adapted and modernized traditional construction techniques to create structurally robust and sustainable school building.

Moreover, clay bricks are cheap, provide good thermal protection againt the hot climate and are easy to produce.

COMUNAL: Taller de Arquitectura studio in Mexico see architecture as a tool helping to improve the communities’ quality of life though processes that engage, empowers and create ownership sense. This architecture studio combines their architectural and engineering knowledge with regional materials and building techniques. For example, the main building materials featured in their projects are red brick and bamboo which are available locally. Architects find a way how to design an eye pleasing built environment with basic materials.

Urban acupuncture network Urban Acupuncture is another concept which had an impact to my thesis development. Urban Acupuncture term in Latin America is not new as some architectural practices throughout the continent have already applied this approach to solve rapid uncontrolled urbanization issues and urban inequality, which ‘is one of the great challenges of the century’ (McGuirk, J.). Urban acupuncture approach - use of small-scale interventions to transform the larger urban context- mostly addresses people living in “informal”, self-built communities, where residents, “without the necessary infrastructure- transport, running water and decent sanitation” (McGuirk, J.) create ghettoes on a vast scale.

Architects supporting Urban Acupuncture become activists required to work as mediators between communities and politicians.

Firstly, architects have to gain knowledge about the communities, understand people needs and make residents participate in the process. Their goal is not to design a beautiful structure for their own glory, but for the benefit of residents.

Moreover, it is significant to consider the scale of Urban acupuncture interventions. Small improvements within communities can stimulate change, but it needs to be implemented at a relevant scale as only the whole network of interventions can lift the character of a city.

As Jorge Fiori, a teacher at London’s Architectural Association, once put it:’ Architecture only makes sense if there is a body’, and the city is a body, ( McGuirk, J. 2015:33) and only system of urban actions across the city will be powerful enough to make a significant impact beyond their immediate site.

fig. 15. Urban Architecture Network. Author´s image * Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

A d a p ta b l e A r c h i t e c t u r e

Why these concepts are important and h o w d o t h e y i m pac t t h e s t r at e g y

Adaptable architecture concept promotes building design that allows an opportunity for the further architectural evolution and change of use. This approach can lead to sustainable developments and give major environment benefit as well as great savings. The modern world, especially rapidly developing urban areas, require constant change to meet the needs of the changing communities.

Architectural and Urban concepts as well as features from the analysed projects are the main factors supporting my thesis – social, architectural and urban strategy, helping to integrate informal settlements into the formal city. Analysed projects promote community and people importance in shaping sustainable and mutually beneficial built environment. Architectural and Urban concepts are the tools shaping physical appearance of the proposal as well as providing adaptability to reflect changing community needs over the time and the urbanization processes.

In the book ‘Adaptable Architecture. Practice and theory’ Robert Schmidt explains adaptable architecture principles and benefits. The principle of open plan, constant grid based on 6 x 6 m dimensions and 3m variations, 4 m distance between the levels are the main features influencing thesis design proposal.

Moreover, modular systems, that can be easily adapted for changing uses and inserted in the building structure, allow a wind range of spatial and use diversity within the building.

In addition, adaptable architecture principles create straightforward conditions for incremental growth which is another concept influencing my thesis strategic approach. Incremental growth reduces urban sprawl and create higher population density which consequently contributes to pleasant public realm.

Adaptable architecture potential is illustrated in the following page.

1. Single mobile cabin

2. Two mobile cabins

3. Primary structure

4 .Primary structure and mobile cabins

5. One level building

6. Two levels building

7. Three levels building

7. Connected buildings

fig. 16. Adaptable Architecture and mobile cabin´s transformation to the building. Author´s image

03

s t r a t e g y Considering the fact that world’s urban population will continue to grow and that major urban transformations will happen in developing Global- South cities, this thesis proposes a strategy how to establish sustainable and economically efficient neighborhoods in emerging informal settlements.

The strategy prototype was developed based on detailed analysis of the city Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Nuevo Palmar district. Even though the strategy is highly related to the neighborhood context, major features can be applied to similar districts worldwide.

In addition, the strategy proposes a number of social, architectural and urban actions which interact in the emerging built environment and growing population at the different phases.

The following page illustrates social, architectural and urban tools or concepts that support proposed strategy approach.

Social,

Architectural

and

Urban

Tools

Community participation The built environment is formed by people who live in the area. If people form a community and participate in the building process, they feel ownership and pride senses. Due to that, built environment will be maintained and looked after by the community.

Economy and financial circles Financial benefits to community members are one of the key elements leading to sustainable growth.

Local people would be more engaged to participate in the community activities if they see a financial benefit or prospects. Newly built facilities will be owned by the community and over the time will grow in value.

adaptable architecture As this thesis describes the architectural approach as a process rather than final static built element, adaptable architecture is an important concept supporting built environment evolution process. Buildings, from the very beginning, should be designed to allow further development and change of use possibilities.

Incremental growth Architectural adaptability allows incremental growth which is essential to reduce urban sprawl and reach an appropriate urban density to support pleasant public realm.

Temporary use Temporary use urban interventions, such as adaptable mobile cabins, allowing different activities, can activate vacant sites and engage people as well as be an affordable way to supply essential amenities or entertainment venues.

People needs Each neighborhood should have amenities supporting basic and additional people needs. It is important to provide cultural, entertainment and sports facilities to contribute to people life quality.

Public space Community only can be established if there is a public space, supporting different activities and uses. People need a place to gather, interact and talk. Only then community members can start to improve their built environment.

Urban acupuncture Temporary use facilities, events, and workshops can become the urban acupuncture elements, stimulating and ‘healing’ the neighborhood. These activities can engage people and activate vacant sites as well as set conditions for further built environment development.

fig. 17. Social, architectural and urban ´tools´ applied to proposed strategy. Author´s image

removing boundaries between

informal and formal cities

fig. 19. Removing boundaries between informal and formal citie. Author´s image

s o c i a l , a r c h i t e c t u r a l a n d u r b a n s t r at e gy

fig. 20. Strategy, community hub and neighborhood connection diagram. Author´s image

Phase 1 :

Phase 2 :

First of all, people in the neighbourhood have to form a strong community and to do that, they need to gather together and start to interact. However, local people would be more engaged to gather around the certain place which can offer a benefit for exchange. Due to that, to gather people, a facility that offers primary needs fulfilling things – like food, water etc. should be build.

This facility should be accompanied with basic mobile structure which provides a shelter and safety sense. Moreover this structure can travel around and activate vacant sites and engage more people.

As people start to establish community bonds, they can start to develop new industries and product lines from the materials available on site. They can produce construction materials, food, fabrics etc. Produced goods will be sold in the market. Received money then should be invested in building learning centers where people can exchange knowledge.

During this phase, people can gain new skills, get employment and financial benefits.

*Phases’descriptions support the diagram on the previous page

Phase 3:

Phase 4:

During phase 3, received financial benefit should be invested in establishing knowledge exchange- learning centers. Flexible mobile cabins can be used for formal and informal learning, as well they can go around the neighborhood to educate more people. Over the time, learning centers network will be developed and community members could gain education and working skills locally.

This phase illustrates sustainable incremental growth process as a result of the previous three phases. Firstly, the neighborhood has a strong community and local industries which give employment and financial benefits to people. Secondly, there are facilities where people can gather and exchange knowledge.

As the neighborhood population keeps growing, people can apply learned knowledge to improve their built environment. Moreover, to avoid urban sprawl, buildings should grow up, rather than spread around.

04 d i s t r i c t a n a ly s i s Developed strategy prototype is applied to the UV 166 (neighborhood 166) in Nuevo Palmar district in Santa Cruz de la Sierra city. This neighborhood was chosen as it the poorest and newest district in the city as well as the informal settlements forms majority of the build environment. This neighborhood do not have paved roads and necessary amenities to support all people needs. Moreover, majority of people are very young what allows to assume that there is a high potential for productivity within the neighborhood.

Following pages provide an analysis of the neighborhood and an illustrative narrative through all four phases. Illustrative narrative presents community hub development based on adaptable and vernacular architecture principles and a brief overall urban development strategy in the neighborhood. Moreover, this strategy is illustrated considering rapid population growth in the neighborhood and a need for additional residential buildings.

fig. 21. Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Nuevo Palmar district relation. Author´s image

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

District analysis

Place

Properties

Overall location is the main factor which dictates most important features of site conditions. Geographical condition predetermines weather conditions which have an impact on building construction type, landscape treatment, and an opportunity to cultivate the land.

Nuevo Palmar district is located in the southeast part of the Santa Cruz de la Sierra city.

Considering broader geographical location, this district is in the eastern lowlands of Bolivia. Due to that, tropical climate and heavy seasonal rains are common in the area. Rain water collection system is integrated into the main street of the district. Warm and humid climate predetermine greenery’s variation as well as the fact that people grow vegetables and fruits in their gardens.

This district is the newest district in the city.

As shown in the illustrative map, the district is not within 4 rings zone and it takes around 45 minutes to get there by public transport from the city center. Micro-bus routes go only through the main streets. However, there is a local public transport like motorcycle taxis or ‘tuk-tuk’ that serve the rest of the district.

Nuevo Palmar occupies a large area in comparison with central districts. However, population level is not high as density is very low.

This area, in relation to other parts of the city, is poorly developed. Majority of the streets are not paved, there are no walkways for pedestrians, lack of schools and public amenities.

On the east side district has boundary with large sugar plantation. This sugar plantation seperates Nuevo Palmar from District 8 - Plan 3000. Plan 3000 is known to be the poorest and most dangerous area within the city.

District properties

Nuevo Palmar district consists 21 UVs. These UVs vary in size, population and density rates, life quality and a number of amenities in the neighborhood. Some of them do not follow traditional grid patterns. Instead, they feature organic layout of the streets. This can be easily recognized in the upper barrio which has the boundary with sugar plantation and Sixto Anillo. Probably the main reason of organic pattern is that migrants started to occupy land and settle down in those areas firstly. In other words, it was the starting point of the district.

Nuevo Palmar district mainly consists residential use buildings. However, Nuevo Palmar road is framed by mix and commercial use buildings. This road has the vegetable, fruit and food shops, a number of eating places and supermarkets. Moreover, rain collection canal goes in the middle of the street by separating the traffic.

Unfortunately, most of the time canal is dirty and contain a lot of trash.

The analysed district has sports fields and children playgrounds which were recently built. However, these facilities are not located in all barrios.

Another important feature of Nuevo Palmar district is a prison, located in the south-west part of the district. This prison occupies the large area and is gated and well-secured.

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

fig. 22. Nuevo Palmar district analysis map. Author´s image

fig. 23. Illustrative map of the informal settlements in Uv 166 Author´s image * Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

UV 166 Neighborhood Thesis proposal will be developed in the selected UV - neighborhood unit- 166.

This area was selected as it was one of the first ones occupied by migrants, the starting point of the district’s evolution. Due to that, from the map, we can recognize organic development patterns: streets do not follow grid structure, blocks vary in size and shape. From the employment, poverty and density research, which was is included in 5A booklet, we can summarise that this area has a ‘middle’ rating among the whole district. Employment is lower than overall in all district, however, people, living in UV 166, are not the poorest ones. Moreover, density issues can be recognized as the area developed in exceptionally low-density patterns.

In the area dominate residential buildings, which majority are self-built by residents. Due to that, some of the buildings remind shelters, built chaotically from varying materials, without design considerations, and in very poor quality.

However, among ‘shelter’ type buildings, some of the houses outstand by its quality and richness. Considering that, we can assume that people living there have different economic backgrounds. Most houses occupy large areas and residents around their homes have land for garden.

Moreover, in the selected UVs is a number of vacant, deteriorated fields which can be utilised as the possible location for my thesis design proposal.

fig. 24. Spatial patterns and atmosphere of selected area. Author´s image

b u i lt e n v i r o n m e n t

Rapid population expansion and development of the district required basic amenities and services like schools, clinics and health centers, roads, electricity and water access. However, the municipality could not develop infrastructure. Due to that, residents have been contributing to the life quality improvement in the district. For example, local people were taking part in the construction of classrooms in order that their children have access to education. In many cases, they were paying salaries to the teachers.

The image on this page reflects built environment condition in the neighborhood.

Materials used for houses are in very poor condition. Some houses use materials that normally would not be applied for construction. Dominating material is the red brick and majority of houses do not have any cladding. Moreover, it is very common to see tall fences and gates which is a sign that people try to protect their properties.

In many cases, it is hard to observe any built environment behind the fences.

Analysed area do not have paved roads and sidewalks. Due to that, there is a lot of dust and dirt in the streets. After talking with people living there I found out that asphalt is the most needed improvement that could be provided by the municipality.

The purpose of this image and an illustrated map of UV 166 in the previous page is to reflect the urban and architectural impression through materiality and greenery. Moreover, it allows perceiving built environment relation with the vacant sites and green areas. As there is no information about buildings’ layouts in municipality maps, this image was created by using aerial view maps and site observations.

p o p u l a t i o n

Nuevo Palmar district, as mentioned before, is the newest district in Santa Cruz de la Sierra.

It was created after the municipal executive decision in 1995 resulting of the approval of the Master Plan 1995. According to the Master Plan of 1978, until District 12 was officially recognised as an urban unit, there were informal settlements in the south-west sector adjacent to the road to the Palmar de Oratorio (PiedraLibre, 2012). District has been growing in population constantly, as majority of the people living in the district are rural migrants and immigrants who decided to settle down in Santa Cruz de la Sierra wishing for better life-quality. According to the 1992 Census, the population was 14,092 inhabitants and in the 2001 Census, 81,331 inhabitants. It is estimated at present has doubled and reaches 180,000 inhabitants.

Predicted population growth

As Santa Cruz de la Sierra is the fastest growing city in Latin America, it is predicted that the population will continue to grow at the same phase and city will struggle to accommodate new dwellers, most commonly rural migrants from the Andean region.

Population change is an important factor in proposed social, architectural and urban strategy because it dictates urban density, the need for residential buildings as well as essential and additional amenities.

As there is no exact population estimation data for Nuevo Palmar district and UV 166, based on past and current residents number changes, Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Santa Cruz department population growth rates, I have predicted future population rates which are presented in the graphs.

I assume that dwellers number in the Nuevo Palmar district will continue to grow at the same phase because it is predicted that the population growth trend in Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Bolivia, in general, will follow the current trend.

Residents number in chosen UVs 166, an approximate number of people living there and a density figure can be proportionally calculated from the total area and the total number of people living in the Nuevo Palmar district.

As UVs 166 consists 5% of the total District area, an approximate population there is 9000 people.The current number of residents will help to predict population growth in an analysed area within the next 30 years.

This data is illustrated in the graph and diagram on the following page. Moreover, the diagram shows residents number according to the age and, based on this information, we can assume that majority of the people who live in UV 166 are young as the age group between 0-18 years old is 42 %.

Nuevo Palmar district population trends

UV 166 population trends

fig. 25. Nuevo Palmar and UV 166 future population predictions. Author´s Graphs

Age group

UV 166 Population according to the residents age

Residents in total

fig. 26. UV 166 future population predictions according to age groups. Author´s diagram

Demogr aphical

Fig 27.

Fig 29.

in formation

Fig 28.

Migration and immigration rate

Economic activities

65% of population are migrants 35% of population are immigrants (PiedraLibre, 2012)

65% of economic activity relates to trade.

15% relates to services 10% relates to small industry (PiedraLibre, 2012)

Poverty Levels 9% have their basic needs met 2% are extremely poor 40% are in poverty 49% are moderately poor (PiedraLibre, 2012)

Fig 30.

Children classed as poor 70% of childred are classed as poor 30% of children live in reasonable conditions (PiedraLibre, 2012)

fig. 27, 28, 29, 30. Demographical and social factors statistic in Nuevo Palmar district Author´s diagram

N u e v o Pa l m a r a n a ly s i s c o n c l u s i o n

Nuevo Palmar district is associated with bad neighborhood as it has bad reputation for poverty, crime rate and lack of infrastructure.

People living in the neighborhood tend to form the community and organise themselves to improve living conditions.

Nuevo Palmar district has been growing rapidly and will continue to grow. However, infrastructure and amenities were not implied at the same pace.

District is divided into UVs which are formed from different barrios. Some parts of the district developed organically as migrants, who occupied the land, developed their urban patterns.

Analysed district is located far from the urban core and is disconnected from the formal city both physically and socially.

fig. 31. Nuevo Palmar district analysis conclusion.

Author´s diagram

* Some parts of the text were taken from 5A research booklet

A n a ly s i s s u m m a r y

To summarise, Nuevo Palmar district is a typical emerging urban area in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. As the district developed from informal settlements, place features organic street layout and other traditional city features.

However, built environment is in a very poor condition and majority of people suffer from poverty.

Moreover, as the population will continue to grow, district and neighborhood will grow on the rapid phase. At this stage, it is important to establish sustainable urban development and growth patterns which ensure that the boundary between informal settlements and formal city is diminished. The following chapter represents an illustrative narrative how the social, architectural and urban strategy can improve UV 166 neighborhood.

05

Illustrative Narrative

The following chapter represents how proposed social, architectural and urban strategy can improve the built environment conditions and life quality in the UV 166 neighborhood.

The strategy is represented through illustrative narrative which shows how community hub develops during four phases and at the same time, what are major urban transformations. Community hub activities are related to improvements in the whole neighborhood. As well, the illustrative narrative follows growing population and increasing density condition.

Architectural and urban concepts, described in the 2nd chapter –vernacular, adaptable architecture and urban acupuncture networkare applied to the strategy and represented in through a number of illustrations.

S O C I A L , A R C H I T E C T U R A L A N D U R B A N S T R AT E G Y

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year 2018 Current Urban Condition

To begin with, proposed social, architectural and urban strategy is applied to UV 166 neighborhood in Nuevo Palmar District. The map on this page represents neighborhood´s current condition and calculated areas.

This neighborhood is very young and not developed. The built area in total consists 47 % and the rest of the area is vacant land. However, the majority of the built area is dedicated to residential use as there is only a few public use facilities and buildings.

vacant land

existing housing

vacant green land

To propose an urban strategy it was essential to calculate areas to define the proportional differences between various uses. These figures, as well as population growth calculation, will help to predict how much more land should be dedicated to residential and other uses based on modern urban design principles.

UV 166 map nowadays

Future Urban Condition

The map on this page illustrates possible urban condition in the future, when the population in the area will be much higher and all vacant land will be dedicated either to the residential or other uses. According to the modern urban guidelines, which encourages mixed land use and pleasant public realm, at least 40 % of the total ground floor รกrea should be allocated for the economic and public use. Following that, the total vacant land is divided for public, commercial and residential uses. As the vacant land currently occupies 412506 m2, , 52 % of this land will be allocated for commercial and public uses while 48 % will be dedicated for future residential use. From here we get the figures : Additional residential use - 195931 m2 Residential use in total -564 226 m2 (195931+368295) Other uses/ amenities- 216575 m2

Residential area calculations are based on the adaptable housing unit , which is described in under the Phase 2. This unit can house one family and, later on, when the family gets bigger, residents can add additional levels. However, on the ground level 1 unit takes the maximum area of 72 m2.

Due to that, in 2721 residential units , marked as dark brown color on the map, can be built in the neighborhood in the future. 2721 housing units can house approximately 16321 residents.

existing housing

public use

new housing

commercial use

Current residents number combined with predicted people number that can be allocated to the new housing units ( 9000 + 16321 =25321) is equal to the maximum residents number that can live in the neighborhood UV 166.

UV 166 possible future condition map

Community hub location As community hub becomes the most important building in the proposed social, urban and architectural strategy, it has to be located in the neighborhood core. As shown in the map, the chosen location is a crossway for major roads in the UV 166. In additional, it is a convenient location for local people as it takes only up to 12 min to reach the site.

Community hub acces

General urban strategy One of the main thesis aspirations is to propose a solution to integrate informal settlements into the formal city and create conditions for sustainable neighborhood development. Due to that, the neighborhood should have local economy and industry which create trading and employment opportunities. However, the question is, what kind of new industries can be developed in the neighborhood?

The best solution is to look for the resources available on site and discover what can be produced from this material. The main resource for UV 166 is the sugarcane which grows on the large plantation on the south-east side.

Sugarcane is a much promising material which can be used to make paper, fabric, sugar, alcohol, lemonade as well as can become a construction material. Another available resource on site in the clay which can become the base for the red brick production.

These materials, as they are available locally and are for free, gives a great opportunity for new industries development. Local people can learn to produce new products in the workshops and then trade them in the market, which, as shown on the map, is located in the heart of the neighborhood.

Sugarcane and brick workshops, market, culture hub and learning centers create the urban chain that supports different activities, provides employment, creates financial cycles and contribute to improving people life quality.

General urban strategy in UV 166 map

Current built environment condition As described in the Nuevo Palmar Analysis chapter (chapter four), built environment condition in the neighborhood is very poor.

There are no paved roads or sidewalks, only dusty gravel pathways. In addition, as residential density is quite low, built environment reminds vacant field with buildings scattered around with no order. Moreover, as this district is located in the tropical climate zone, there is a lot of greenery. Huge trees and tall grass give an impression of the being in the tropical forest.

People living here The proposed social, architectural and urban strategy empathizes the importance of people contribution to the built environment, participatory design approach, and urban acupuncture networks. Due to that, it is important to understand in what conditions people live and what are their daily activities and attachment to the neighborhood.

To gain this knowledge, the survey, containing 35 questions about residents, their home and district from their point of view, was carried out. A detailed survey description is provided in 5A booklet.

To summarise the survey, after visiting the area for a number of times and talking to the residents, I have realised that Nuevo Palmar district is very diverse and people living there come from various backgrounds. Some of them are much richer, have a good education and higher incomes.

These people talked to me more open and friendlier. Others, living in the poverty, were very shy and suspicious. Considering that, the social inequality is an issue even inside the barrio. Poorer people, living in UV 166, do not have appropriate education and stable incomes, they live in big families and share the home with other relatives.

The drawing, illustrating Nuevo Palmar residents, reflects the typical family in the neighborhood- majority of family members are young children, who need education and daily activities to keep them busy.

t o g at h e r a n d ac t i vat e

Community Hub during phase 1

Water tower The purpose of the first strategy phase is to gather people and establish community bonds as well as activate vacant sites. The best way to gather residents is by offering an essential or important thing- which, in this case, is water.

Clean, suitable for drinking water deficit in Bolivia was a major issue for the past decades, and in the neighborhoods as Nuevo Palmar, this problem is even larger, as people do not have an access to clean water.

Water tower, providing an essential clean water to everyone, can become a gathering point. Moreover, as the tower is higher than the rest buildings in the neighborhood, it will become a focal and symbolic point.

In addition, it is located in the crossway where roads, connecting different parts of the neighborhood, meet. ( See the illustrations in the following page )

Strategical water tower- community hub- location. Roads, connecting different parts of the neighborhood, meet at this point

Neighborhood residents approaching water tower

Water tower approacg and location diagram

Diagram showing an establishment of the adaptable 6 x 6 architecture grid

Water tower and mobile cabins plan.Not to scale.

The starting point of the community hub

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1. Water Tower 2/3. Mobile cabin 4.Platform made from pallets

Establishing Community Hub This illustration shows how water tower becomes a focal gathering point, public space, where people can meet and start discussions. Moreover, it is accompanied by mobile cabin, which provides shelter, trading point, and an event space. The plan below presents water tower and mobile cabin relation.

Establishing community hub. Water tower becomes a public space and events space

Gathering people and establishing community bonds between local people. Water tower, surrounded by mobile cabins, becomes a public space, providing different activities.

Events Venue Flexible mobile cabins, surrounding the water tower, allow an opportunity to hold different events such as movies nights, community gatherings and celebrations.

This public space gives an opportunity to establish community and engage people.

Mobile Cabin - a starting point for adaptable architecture structures.

1. Single cabin. 6 x 6 m

2. Two cabins and space between

Trading unit

Mobile classroom

Performance venue- stage

3. Structure following 6 x 6 m grid

4. Additional levels following 6 x 6 m grid

Mobile Cabin provides different temporary use activities

Establishing permanent uses and creating a base for adaptable architecture structures

Mobile cabin, varying in size between 6 x 6 m and 6 x 9 m can hold different activities. It can became a trading unit, mobile classroom or a stage for performances.

This cabin acts as urban acupuncture module, traveling around the neighborhood and activating vacant sites.

The purpose of this cabin is to provide different amenities on a number of sites in the cheapest way. As the time goes, the cabin becomes a structure, following 6x6 grid pattern, with permanent use. This approach allows to establish new public amenities in the neighborhood- such as schools, market and culture hub. More information how mobile cabin activates vacant sites and establish new amenities is provided in the following page.

Mobile cabin travels around the neighborhood to activate vacant sites

Mobile cabin and the Neighborhood As shown in illustrated map, mobile cabins leave water tower- community hub- site and travel around the neighborhood to activate vacant sites and establish permanent use facilities. The allocation of facilities follow general urban strategy which was described previously. The learning center, culture hub and market sites are the primary locations where mobile cabins will settle down.

Community hub, mobile cabin and neighborhood relation. Mobile cabin activates learning center, culture hub and market sites

resource and production

Community hub during phase 2 Sugarcane and brick making workshops Phase 2 purpose is to establish new industries and start financial cycles within the neighborhood. As community is already engaged and people are encouraged to participate and take action, they can start to use local resources to produce goods for trading or self-use. At this stage, water tower- community hub- grows and provides sugarcane weaving and brick making workshops.

Community Hub during phase 2

Resource, community hub and market strategy in the neighborhood.

Establishing new industries and financial cycle

Resource, production and trading cycle

The diagrammatic map on this page illustrates new industries establishment and financial cycle in the neighborhood. As sugarcane and clay are available materials locally, community members can use it to produce various products. Sugarcane, provided by large sugar plantation on the south-east side of the neighborhood, can be used to produce construction materials – as woven walls, furniture and roof structures, as well as fabric and paper. Clay, which is also available on site, is the base material to make red bricks.

The materials- sugarcane and clay- are collected in the workshops next to the water tower- community hub. Here community members can learn how to use these materials and create goods for trading. Made products are sold in the market area which is located in the heart of the neighborhood.

Alternatively, community members, who are participating in the workshop activities, can use produced materials - woven walls and bricks- to improve their built environment. In this case, people will be encouraged to take part in workshops activities as they can get benefit from it.

New facilities and adaptable architecutre grid

Community hub during phase 2 plan. Not to scale

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1. Water Tower 2. Eating space 3. WC 4.Food preparation 5. Trading point

6. Mobile cabin eating, gathering uses 7.Sugarcane weaving workshop 8. Brick workshop 9.Clay storage

Public space development During the phase 2, building materials such as red bricks and woven sugarcane walls, are produced and used to upgrade existing structures. Water tower is strengthened with the brick facade and mobile cabins are changed by adaptable architecture structures, which follow 6 x 6 m grid. Moreover, the space between water tower and workshops starts to become a public square.

View

Water tower and community hub development during phase 2

Sugarcane weaving workshop Sugarcane workshop is a new facility in the community hub during the phase 2.

At this stage, the workshop activities are held under the mobile cabin structure.

Weaving process happens outside the cabin but beneath the projecting roof, which provides shelter. Woven products are held inside the cabin to provide safety. The diagram below shows workshop access from the water tower and the neighborhood. The front access is used to bring material as shown in the illustration.

Sugarcane workshop during phase 2

Community women involved in the weaving process in the sugarcane workshop during phase 2

View

Building process in the clay storage during phase 2

Brick production workshop As clay is an available material locally, brick production industry allows producing building material to improve built environment condition in the neighborhood as well as can be sold in the market. During the phase 2, the workshop consist two structures- clay storage and open to public working area, sheltered by mobile cabin unit.The illustration on this page presents a view from the clay storage.

View

Mixed use workshop

This space is located between the sugarcane and brick workshops and during phase 2 is formed from 1 mobile cabin. Mixed workshop provides an opportunity for all community members to learn how to use bricks and woven sugarcane walls for building process.

View

Mixed use workshop. A place where people can learn how to build from bricks and use sugarcane in the building process.

Residential unit building and incremental growth As the number of residents in the neighbourhood constantly grows, there is a huge demand for new housing units. During the phase 2, according to urban calculations, the population will increase by 4000 people and 666 housing units will have to be built. Proposed module is influenced by famous Elemental Half a House, Quinta Monroy, module, which allows an opportunity for people build additional levels over the time when they have more income. In this case, residential unit grows in value and becomes an investment for the future. Proposed unit occupies 72 sq m area, however, the primary structure consists 36 sq m leaving the rest area for future development. Residential units transformation is illustrated in the following page.

The building skills learnt at the community hub workshops, can be applied to build new residential units. As community members gained knowledge about the building process and materials, they can participate in the building process. Diagram on this page shows primary basic housing unit and residents participation.

Roof

Housing unit design is based on the climate conditions. Red brick provides good thermal insulation and resistance to hot weather. The gap between roof and walls allows natural ventilation. Moreover, use od local materials support vernacular architecture concept.

Structure

Woven sugarcane walls

Brick walls

Primary housing unit and community participation in building process

Residential unit transformation

1. 36 sq m unit

2. Building 2nd floor, 72 sq m in total

3.Residential unit grows to 144 sq m

year 2023 Urban strategy during phase 2

As shown on the map, there was a number of alterations and development in the neighborhood during the period of time between water tower- community hub- appearance till the end of phase 2.

As the sugarcane and brick production industries started, sites, providing these materials were transformed from the vacant land to industrial, commercial use areas. Moreover, market area has developed as community had more new products to sell. Activities, held in temporary use cabins on the learning center and culture hub sites continued to provide permanent use facilities in the following stage.

civic buildings

market

brick factory

new housing

sugarcane factory

Additional housing 666 housing units were built, which consists 25 % of the total area dedicated for residential use in the future development.

UV 166 neighborhood during phase 2

exchanging knowledge

Community hub during phase 3 Learning centerts The most important feature of the phase 3 is that financial benefit, received from the new sugarcane and brick production industries, is dedicated to create learning centers facilities and network. During this phase, community hub site grows as new learning facilities are provided. In addition, sugarcane weaving and brick production workshops grow and become small factories, providing more employment opportunities to local people. As shown in the illustration, produced red bricks are used to improve and develop built environment within the community hub and all neighborhood.

Community Hub during phase 3

New facilities and adaptable architecutre grid

Community hub during phase 3 plan. Not to scale

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1. Water Tower 2. Eating space 3. WC 4.Food preparation 5. Trading point 6. Mobile cabin eating, gathering uses 7.Sugarcane weaving

8. Clay storage 9. Fireplace to burn bricks 10. Mixed use workshop 11. Informal learnig space 12. Academic learning spcae 13. Public square

Sugarcane weaving workshop development

During phase 3, sugarcane weaving workshop constantly develops. Mobile cabin is changed by permanent building with solid red brick walls.

Spaces in the workshop follow 6 x 6 m grid and allow further future growth. Moreover, workshop contains different type working spaces as weaving areas and rooms, secured office, storage room and sugarcane delivery area. The illustration on this page built environment improvement over the time.

View

PHASE 3 to learn

Sugarcane weaving workshop during phase 3

Community Hub during phase 1 Courtyard in the sugarcane workshop At this phase, as the sugarcane workshop continues to grow, new areas form the courtyard. As shown in the

illustration, this area provides informal working conditions as well as a place to gather and take a break.

View

Sugarcane weaving workshop courtyard during phase 3

Brick production workshop during phase 3 As show in the plan diagram below, brick workshop has expanded and consists more areas which vary regarding privacy and accessibility. The area between sugarcane and brick workshops is open to public and accessible by the path which connects water tower area with to the production dedicated areas.

At this stage brick workshop contains clay storage hall, hall with fireplace to burn bricks and multiple use working area.

View

Clay storage hall during phase 3

Vi ew Trading and public use space

The space illustrated in the drawing shows trading, eating and gathering area on the way to sugarcane and brick production workshop. The pathway from here leads to open to public workshops’ areas which make a statement that all community members are invited to learn and participate in production activities.

Trading and gathering space connecting workshops with ccmmunity hub public space

Learning center As mentioned before, the major change between community hub facilities during phase 2 and phase 3 is that during phase 3 it includes learning spaces. However, during this phase learning facilities are just in the primary condition, but, as it’s structure follows adaptable architecture grid, it will allow opportunity to develop in the future. During this phase learning center contains informal learning space and formal, classroom type areas. In addition, there is a courtyard connecting to the main community hub square. Adult people, while spending time in learning center, can leave children to play in this courtyard as it is enclosed by other facilities and is secured.

Learning center establishment during phase 3

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Formal type learning unit during phase 3

Learning center development

1. Mobile cabin- classroom

2. Informal learning space

3. Formal learning space

4. Primary learning center

5. Developed learning center

Primary learning center plan

developed learning center plan

Learning center network in the neighborhood The majority of the people living in Nuevo Palmar district and UV 166, according to population growth prediction trend, are very young and most of them need to go to school to get primary and secondary education.

However, there is only one currently existing school which is not able to provide education to everyone. For this reason, it is essential to develop learning centers network, which can operate in all neighborhood. Learning centres will develop based on the previously explained prototype. Firstly it will be a mobile classroom, later- informal and formal type learning spaces. After that, these spaces will develop to a learning center, which can continue to grow based on adaptable architecture principles.

As shown in the map, learning centers are located in different parts of the neighborhood to provide easily accessible educational facilities to all residents.

Learning center network in the UV 166

year 2028 Urban strategy during phase 3

General urban strategy map, which presents neighborhood condition regarding the proportion between residential, commercial and public use amenities during the phase 3, shows that is UV 166 has more diverse public use amenities and that the ones that were established during the phase 2 – market, sugarcane production factory, culture hub and learning center- have been developing and now occupies more area.

During this phase the neighborhood reaches an appropriate residents density advised by modern urban guidelines – 15000 people per 1 sq m. That means, that built environment, containing this number of residents, creates pleasant public realm and a nice living environment.

learning center

culture hub

civic buildings

market

brick factory

new housing

sugarcane factory

Apart from learning centers development in the whole neighborhood, there is a significant change in the market area. During phase 3 it is accompanied by civic use buildings and main neighborhood square.

UV 166 neighborhood during phase 3

i n c r e m e n ta l g r ow t h

Community Hub during phase 4 Phase 1, 2 and 3 create conditions for sustainable development in the neighborhood, as well as community hub. Community hub can continue to expand following the incremental manner and adaptable architecture 6 x 6 m grid. During this stage, built environment improves significantly regarding quality, as local people over the time have gained more knowledge and experience about the construction process.

Moreover, public surrounding the community hub develops and features paved roads and sidewalks. To sum up, this phase illustrates the positive change, brought by proposed social, architectural and urban strategy, into UV 166 neighborhood.

Community Hub during phase 4

1. Water Tower 2. Staircase to upper level 3. WC 4.Food preparation 5. Trading use 6. Gathering, eating spaces 7.1 Sugarcane storage 7.2 Weaving area 7.3 Secured office 7.4 WC 7.5 Weaving area 7.6 Courtyard 7.7 Staircase to upper level 8.1 Clay storage 8.2 Office 8.3 Mixed use workshop 8.4. Staircase to upper level 8.5. Fireplace to burn bricks 8.6 Storage 8.7 Export access

9.1 Informal learning space 9.2 WC 9.3 Staircase to upper level 9.4 Formal classroom 9.5 Courtyard 10. 1 Nursery gathering space 10.2 Nursery resting area 10.3 WC 10.4 Playground 11. Mobile cabins 12.Outside gathering -events space 13. Market stalls

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Community hub plan during phase 4. Not to scale

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View 1. Developed public space - Community hub square

Community hub and learning center ground floor plan. Not to scale

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View 2. Developed learning center. View from the courtyard

Public use space in front of the water tower

Gatherinmg space and market stalls The green space in front of the water tower is transformed to multiple use, partly sheltered public space. Here people can relax, gather, eat and also sell various in things in the market stalls.

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Sugarcane weaving factory During phase 4, sugarcane weaving workshop keeps developing and at this stage, it becomes a Factory. Architectural quality and use of materials are better defined and built environment is improved. Moreover, the additional units enclose the inner courtyard in the back of the factory. As well, sugarcane factory starts to grow incrementally as upper level is provided.

Sugarcane weaving factory during phase 4

year 2040 Urban strategy during phase 4

Previous phases 1, 2, 3 provided conditions for sustainable incremental growth in the neighborhood during the phase 4. This phase takes a longer time period and due to that, as you can see in the urban neighborhood plan, the area is developed more. The population grows by 7000 residents and 1166 additional housing units need to be provided. At this stage, combined housing units during the phase 1,2, 3 and 4, residential use area occupies 85% of the total area, allocated to the housing. As the population grows, the density figure follows the same manner and reaches a high density of 23000 people per 1 sqm.

As shown on the map, almost all vacant land is occupied by diverse use commercial and public facilities. High density and mixed land use create a vibrant and diverse atmosphere as various groups of people are taking part in the neighborhood life.

As the residents number in the neighborhood grows, market, civic, culture, and educational areas continue to develop to be able to be accessible to all residents. Built environment develops following adaptable architecture principles which were described while analyzing community hub development.

municipality use

health care

recreational zone

learning center

culture hub

civic buildings

market

brick factory

new housing

sugarcane factory

To sum up, UV 166 and community hub, during phase 4, reflects the success of proposed social, architectural and urban strategy. The built environment was improved over a long period of time and is the result of community work.

Due to that, local residents feel ownership and pride senses and are encouraged to maintain and look after their neighborhood.

UV 166 Neighborhood during phase 4

06 C o n c l u s s i o n To summarise, our world is becoming urban, and, unfortunately, people, living in developed West countries, hardly imagine or think what are the life quality conditions in developing countries and how some people have to suffer. However, most importantly, wealthy residents in developing countries, even though they have opportunities to make a change and support slum dwellers, they hardly take an initiative and prefer to ignore this issue.

My proposed social, architectural and urban strategy is an alternative way helping to integrate informal settlements into the formal city and to reduce the social inequality boundaries between rural migrants and wealthy local residents. I believe that this type of strategy could create a strong background for sustainable neighborhood development and the future growth.

LIST OF FIGURES Chapter 1 Figure 1: Countries with urban population exceeding 100.000 in 2012. Author’s image based on Unicef Urban Population Map < https://www.unicef.org/sowc2012/urbanmap/> Figure 2: Countries with urban population exceeding 100.000 by 2050.Author’s image based on Unicef Urban Population Map < https://www.unicef.org/sowc2012/urbanmap/> Figure 3.1: La Paz. Authors photograph

Figure 3.2: Favela Rocinha in Rio de Janeiro. Author’s photograph Figure 4: Bolivia’s location illustrative map. Author’s illustration Figure 5: People and social inequality in Bolivia

Figure 6: Migration to the city illustration. Authors image

Figure 7: Santa cruz de la sierra development history. Author´s image

Figure 8: Problems in the city.Socal inequality, informal settlements and an overall chaos. Author´s image

Chapter 2 Figure 9: Public space importance. Author´s image

Figure 10: Community participation in building process. Author´s image Figure 11: Stage. Author´s image

Figure 12: Incremental growth. Author´s image

Figure 13: Community maintained facility in the favela. Author´s image Figure 14: Vernacular architecture. Author´s image

Figure 15: Urban Architecture Network. Author´s image

Figure 16: Adaptable Architecture and mobile cabin´s transformation to the building. Author´s image

Chapter 3 Figure 17: Social, architectural and urban ´tools´ applied to proposed strategy. Author´s image Figure 18: Removing boundaries between informal and formal cities. Author´s image

Figure 20: Strategy, community hub and neighborhood connection diagram. Author´s image

Chapter 4

Figure 21: Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Nuevo Palmar district relation. Author´s image Figure 22: Nuevo Palmar district analysis map. Author´s image

Figure 23: Illustrative map of the informal settlements in Uv 166 Author´s image Figure 24: Spatial patterns and atmosphere of selected area. Author´s image

Figure 25: Nuevo Palmar and UV 166 future population predictions. Author´s Graphs

Figure 26: UV 166 future population predictions according to age groups. Author´s diagram Figure 27: Migration statistics.Author’s image based on PiedraLibre 2012 data.

Figure 28: Economic statistics. Author’s image based on PiedraLibre 2012 data.

Figure 29: Poverty. Author’s image based on PiedraLibre 2012 data.

Figure 30: Children classed as poor statistics. Author’s image based on PiedraLibre 2012 data.

Figure 31: Nuevo Palmar district analysis conclusion. Author´s diagram

BIBLIOGRAPHY Books & reports Angel, S. (2001) Making room for the Planet of Cities. Cambridge: Lincoln Institute of Land Policy

Akbar, J. 1988 .Crisis in the Built Environment: The Case of the Muslim City. Singapore: Concept Media Alexander, C. 1984. The Production of Houses. In The Scope of Social Architecture. eds. Hatch, R. Alexander, C.1965. A city is not a tree.

Arputham, J. (2016). Ward diaries : crucial evidence for planning in Mumbai’s slums. Retrieved April 15, 2017, from https://www.iied.org/ward-diaries-crucial-evidence-for-planning-mumbaisslums

Brillembourg, A., Klumpner, H., Contento, M., Sherman, L. (2011) Trans-Borderlands: Activating the Plasticity of Urban Border-Space. Available at < https://www.research-collection.ethz.ch/handle/20.500.11850/62094 Blundell, P. 2005. Architecture and Participation. London. New York: Spon Press. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. pp 123-133 De Soto, Hernando. (2000) Mystery of Capital. London: Black Swan

De Soto, Hernando. 1989. The Other Path: The Invisible Revolution in the Third World. New York: Harper and Row.

Gilbert, A. (2007). The Return of the Slum: Does Language Matter? International Journal of Urban and Regional Research, 31(4), 697–713. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-2427.2007.00754.x Glaeser, E. (2011). Triumph of the City. New York: penguin Books.

Glaeser, E. L. (2013). A World Of Cities: The Causes And Consequences Of Urbanization In Poorer Countries (Nber Working Paper Series A) Hatch, R. 1984. The Scope of Social Architecture. New York: Van Nostrand Reinhold Company. p 7 Jacobs, J. 1962. The Death and life of great American cities. London: Jonathan Cape.

Kirshner, J (2010) Migration, Informalization and Public Space in Santa Cruz, Bolivia. Bolivian Studies Journal, vol 15-17.

Kirshner, J (2011). Hygiene panic and urban space in Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Online resource, available at https://www.researchgate.net/publication/275769442

Kirshner, J (2013). City profile: Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Online resource, available at https://www.researchgate. net/publication/257097075 Lefebvre, H. 1991. The Production of Space. Oxford: Blackwell. p 86.

Lefebvre, H. 2004. Rythmanalysis. London: Continumm.

LIMPIAS, Víctor Hugo. 2003. Arquitectura y urbanismo en Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz: Universidad Privada de Santa Cruz (UPSA) McGuirk, J. (2015). Radical Cities. London: VERSO.

Neuwirth, R. (2005). Shadow Cities: A billion squatters, a new urban world. New York: Routledge

PAP (Programa de Alivio a la Pobreza). 2006. Pobreza urbana: Niveles de incidencia en la ciudad de Santa Cruz de la Sierra. Santa Cruz: Fundación PAP. Ponce, R. (2017) Bolivia Country Study and Urban Development Opportunities

Schmidt, Robert (2017). Adaptable Architecture. Theory and practice.London: Taylor & Francis Ltd Tannuri, M; Donald M. Arias, O.(2004) Informal Employment in Bolivia: A Lost Proposition?

Turner, F. (1972) Freedom to Build. New York: The Macmillan Company

UN-Habitat. (2003). The Challenge Of Slums: Global Report on Human Settlements 2003.

UN-Habitat (2008). Housing Finance Mechanisms in Bolivia. Nairobi: UN Habitat

UN-Habitat (2012) State of Latin America and Caribbean Cities. Naples: UN Habitat

Webs i t e s PiedraLibre magazine https://es.slideshare.net/Idearia/distrito12palmar

https://www.research-collection.ethz.ch/handle/20.500.11850/62094 Architect’s Jorge Jauregui website http://www.jauregui.arq.br/

Architecture researcher Justin McGuirk website: http://justinmcguirk.com/ Urban-ThinkTank website http://u-tt.com/

http://www.plannersnetwork.org/2009/01/social-housing-in-bolivia-challenges-and-contradictions/ Bolivia’s statistical information http://www.ine.gob.bo/index.php/demografia/introduccion-2

Information about Santa Cruz de la Sierra http://www.concejomunicipalscz.gob.bo/portal/index.php/participa/mapas-importantes/mapas-de-los-distritos http://www.eldeber.com.bo/santacruz/Nuevo-Palmar-comienza-festejos-por-sus-17-anos-20160513-73718. html http://eju.tv/2014/04/santa-cruz-los-lotes-el-distrito-pobre-convertido-en-dormitorio/ Blog about Santa Cruz de la Sierra http://sczurbana.blogspot.com/2013/05/

Videos Talk about informality by Robert Neuwirth https://www.ted.com/talks/robert_neuwirth_on_our_shadow_cities Urban Architecture Talks

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bwgWM3h_l-4 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hrmQjqgSB0s https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aT8tcP02Bo

PREVI https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1R8t-uPqMOw Talk by Alejandro Aravena https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0I0Poe3qlg

Case studies

Tapis Rouge Public Space in Port-au-Prince http://www.evastudio.co.uk Arquitectura Expandida http://arquitecturaexpandida.org/

Studio Kabako http://currystonedesignprize.com/

COMUNAL: Taller de Arquitectura studio in Mexico https://www.comunaltaller.com/ Kere Architecture http://www.kere-architecture.com/projects/

Adaptable architecture Schmidt, Robert (2017). Adaptable Architecture. Theory and practice.London: Taylor & Francis Ltd