The social and environmental impacts of a housing deficit

The demand for housing in Manaus, located in the State of Amazonas, is intensified by rapid urbanization driven by industrialization, attracting migrants from rural riverine communities who lack resources and government support. Moreover, the high population density in urban riverbank settlements exacerbates environmental degradation and health risks associated with inadequate waste and sewage management.

Drawing wisdom from traditional riverside communities and their housing

The report unfolds in two parts, beginning with an exploration of traditional riverside communities. Through immersive field trips, interviews, and visits to Amazonian dwellings – including stilt houses and floating homes – the research extracts lessons on sustainable design and construction that are applicable to modern architecture. These lessons included understanding bioclimatic strategies for adapting to climate such as natural ventilation, extended eaves for sun and rain protection, verandahs for thermal comfort and socialization, and minimal lightweight walls and partitions for optimal air circulation.

Danielle also documented the elements of vernacular architecture that illustrate how adaptation is an essential characteristic of construction. Although floods are a natural part of the river’s cycle, floods have become increasingly extreme and unpredictable – so communities have adapted their homes to minimize the impact of these larger oscillations. To respond, the community developed the “maromba” raised floor in stilt houses to raise the floor above the water level to protect residents and their belongings until floodwaters recede. The technique of permanently elevating stilt houses is a common strategy used by river dwellers in the Amazon to adapt to the region’s large floods. Houses are also attached to a winch and rails to physically move the house further away from the riverbank when landslides or erosion occurs.

As part of the research, the value of social cohesion and solidarity was documented. Riverside communities have a strong social cohesion, where each individual is seen as part of a whole, encouraged to help their peers and work together to achieve community development. Cooperation is a central value, with residents often organizing themselves to solve problems, improve infrastructure, and create initiatives that benefit everyone.

A social housing proposal that integrates local culture and sustainable design

The second part of the report envisions practical applications of this knowledge through a social housing project for at-risk riverside populations. By challenging conventional norms, the project aims to address urban housing deficits while integrating local culture and sustainable design principles.

The research has led to the development of a concept for a social housing project that exemplifies the dialogue between traditional knowledge and contemporary practices. The project aspires to be a cost-effective and sustainable housing option for populations at risk, ensuring access to dignified housing and essential sanitation facilities. Beyond providing shelter, the project aims to empower urban riverside communities, acknowledging and celebrating their culture. It seeks to foster a sense of place and belonging, encouraging residents to live in harmony with their environment while safeguarding their rich traditions. The main wooden structure, prefabricated off-site in small local factories or workshops, ensures quick and efficient installation of housing units, expediting their readiness. For the flooring and walls, the project also selected local wood due to its natural ability to regulate temperature – a vital consideration due to the local climate. This decision not only reduced costs but also aligned with environmentally conscious practices by utilizing natural available materials from the region.

A cultural shift in architectural design to incorporate local knowledge

Despite its sustainability, traditional riverside architecture faces marginalization in Amazonian cities due to colonial influences and the imposition of external architectural norms. This results in increased energy consumption, inadequate adaptation to natural cycles, and material losses during floods. The book advocates for a cultural shift in architectural design to better incorporate local knowledge, fostering authentic cultural identities and sustainable building practices.

Riverside vernacular architecture, characterized by stilt houses and floating structures, reflects local culture and adaptation to the challenging Amazonian environment. This architecture, informed by collective knowledge passed down through generations, offers lessons on sustainable construction. Rather than romanticizing the past, the book suggests integrating traditional knowledge with modern technologies to create contextually sensitive architecture.

In conclusion, the book aims to inspire sustainable, community-centered architectural practices in the Amazon, promoting harmony between the built environment and nature while honoring local cultures and traditions.