Housing management for sustainable architecture

Abstract

Based on a comparative analysis of housing estates from Pelotas, RS, this study aims to identify variables that support the improvement of housing management practices, in order to make contributions for the improvement of such spaces and propose parameters for new designs. Four case studies were carried out in housing estates, some promoted by both the state and others by private developers. A functional, technical and behavioural post occupancy evaluation was carried out, emphasising housing management processes. The main results of this research study were: (a) the housing states promoted by the state had problems related to maintenance and conservation of collective spaces; (b) most dwellers do not take part in the condominium organisation in both types of estates; and (c) several changes made by dwellers were detected, including new uses and building extensions, and the building managers do not have control on them. The results suggest that social housing must be regarded as the provision of housing services. Moreover, the assessment of condominium management in those housing estates indicates that the Brazilian condominium law is inadequate for dealing with the complex relationships that exist in housing estates for low income people.