Open street Maré: a resilient community

Discover the vibrant life and unique challenges of Maré, an informal settlement in Rio de Janeiro. This project explores its history, community-led development, and the urgent need for integrated urban strategies.

The spirit of Maré

 

Maré, an informal settlement in Rio de Janeiro, is a testament to decades of resident-led development despite socio-spatial inequality. Historically excluded from formal planning, it has seen rapid growth without adequate infrastructure, leading to fragmented zoning and limited transportation.

Streets as living spaces

 

Despite these challenges, Maré thrives with internal vibrancy. Its streets are essential public spaces, supporting daily life, local economies, and cultural expression. However, issues like unsafe streets, poor sanitation, and physical barriers still isolate the community from the wider city.

Embracing urban flexibility

 

This project highlights Maré's resilience and the urgent need for collaborative, community-centered strategies. It advocates for integrating informal urban systems into formal planning, recognizing that streets can serve as dynamic public spaces in informal settlements. We must respect the flexibility of our urban fabric.