Favela Cloud, it is one thing, to design a building and have it stand the test of time without changing, becoming a museum in and of itself, but in this day and age architects are beginning to see the need for adaption and evolution in their work. Although we may not like it, buildings are not static things; life revolves in and around them, leaving a residue on a once pure, newly built structure. With the needs of people, and cities for that matter, constantly changing, a time has come for architecture to embrace the unpredictable needs of the masses and become flexible.
The Favela Cloud is a design by Johan Kure, Kemo Usto and Thiru Manickam. The conceptual proposal is located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil for the future development of favela Santa Marta. The design proposes an alternative vision for a new way of building inhabitable structures in the area, drawing on the social and organizational qualities of the favela itself. Using self-organization logic, an additive system that can grow and adapt, the development hovers above the rest of the area, utilizing the existing paths and openings of the site, creating an interesting cloud like condition.
Inspired by the cobogó brick, widely used in a Brazilian context, the cloud is designed to act as an urban cobogó, shading the open spaces inside the cloud as well as the public plaza underneath. The design features a set of flexible platforms for cultural functions such as a library and media space, dance studio, and learning center. The hybrid program also contains new dwellings for residences. The intention for the proposal was to merge a diverse program into a flexible architectural design that can evolve according to the future need of the favela, turning it into a new landmark functioning as a communicator to the formal city.
Kristin Hoover is an editor at Arch2O and a proud graduate of Virginia Tech. Since joining in July 2014, she has authored over 200 insightful articles covering everything from adaptive reuse and cultural centers to eco-buildings and urban infrastructure . With a passion for architectural storytelling, Kristin skillfully curates and crafts compelling narratives that bring design innovation to life. Her editorial work reflects a broad yet finely honed interest in how architecture intersects with society, technology, and the environment—making her a key voice shaping Arch2O’s explorations of contemporary built form.