Xinyi Sun In the bustling city of Babahoyo, Ecuador, urban development has taken a toll on collective housing over the past four decades. With a shift towards speculative urban models on the outskirts, issues such as social segregation and urban decay have become prevalent. In response to these challenges, Natura Futura Arquitectura embarked on a transformative project titled “Operación Entre Apartamentos”.
Rethinking Urban Living: A Conceptual Framework
Situated along the riverbank in the city center, Operación Entre Apartamentos emerged as a beacon of innovation. A young couple sought to breathe new life into a disused apartment within an 80s collective housing building. The traditional layout, rigid and outdated, begged for a radical transformation. The intervention aimed not only to revitalize the space but also to foster adaptability and flexibility. This vision materialized through six key operations.
Operations in Action: Adaptable Design Solutions
From rotating turntables to sliding walls, each operation was meticulously crafted to maximize functionality and versatility. Elevating counters, folding panels, and dual-use elements further optimized space utilization. These mechanisms, born out of trial and error, were constructed using local artisanal techniques and indigenous materials, ensuring a harmonious integration with the coastal landscape.
Evolving Spaces: Flexibility in Design
The essence of Operación Entre Apartamentos lies in its ability to evolve with the needs of its inhabitants. Whether accommodating a university student or a large family, the space remains adaptable and convertible. This fluid perspective not only reflects contemporary living realities but also fosters a sense of collective ownership among residents.
Catalyzing Community Change
Beyond the confines of the apartment, the project sparked a ripple effect within the neighborhood. Motivated by the transformation, residents rallied together to renovate communal spaces and initiate a family business on the ground floor. Collective decisions, such as painting facades and enhancing communal areas, underscored a newfound sense of community cohesion.
Towards Urban Revitalization
Operación Entre Apartamentos exemplifies the power of small-scale interventions in revitalizing urban centers. By reimagining living spaces and fostering community engagement, the project lays the groundwork for a more vibrant and interconnected urban landscape. Through collective efforts, new forms of collectivity and urban renewal become not just possibilities but realities.
