Learning with the Commons: Housing for an Urban Social Revolution

Brazil is challenged to delivering housing for low-income urban citizens and the notion of the commons can produce knowledge related to collective housing; particularly regarding design and the participation of the population in housing processes. This research aims for a collective knowledge base to tackle the challenge of constructing a social space facing the urban metropolitanization of the 21st century. Spatial models applied in the housing production and the concept of the commons are discussed, in terms of the contemporary debate. The results are design methods (and housing strategies) which generate more inclusive, resilient and vivid urban territories – and connect dwelling and collective space.