Brasilia Superquadra

Francesco Marini looks at the Brasilia’s residential areas where the space is methodically proportionate to the human figure. In this space the local population has grown accustomed to an ideal lifestyle in relationship with wide public spaces and nature.

The earth is red, dry and dusty, the seasonal rhythm is consistent: six months of clear sky, six months of rain.

It is different from the rest of Brazil. Niemeyer, since designing Superquadra 108 has developed a village / capital city, following the rules and clear principles of a rational modernist planning.

In addition to the famous and monumental government district, Brasilia has an exemplary residential ecosystem. The North Wing and South Wing form an area where the space is methodically proportionate to the human figure. In this space the local population has grown accustomed to an ideal lifestyle. Coming out of the subway in this area of the city, the feeling of detachment and excess that characterize the city center turns into stillness and silence. The first thing that attracts attention is the extension of public spaces.

There are no gates, fences, or inaccessible areas, it is possible to safely walk to every corner, going throughout the length of the district without any interruption. The buildings are all suspended by elegant pilotis and without a front entrance: the access is from the bottom, with a lift, much like a spaceship. The large lawns and vegetation fields are at one with the living spaces. It is all integrated as in a landscape of piles or tree houses, interpreting the best aspects of a garden-city.

The intent of Costa was to give residents a feeling of total freedom. The size, proportions and population density were in fact designed to convey a feeling of security and accessibility.

The disarming quiet of the city is also visible: nothing is out of place, nothing seems to escape the systematic and strict “pilota” planning. It is difficult to tell if it is due to the hyper design of the city, or if they are just peculiarities of a new way of life.