Part of the São Paulo Municipal Slum Reurbanisation Program, the Heliópolis Housing Project is a large-scale social housing development located at the interface between the formal city and the informal urban fabric of Heliópolis, one of São Paulo's largest informal settlements.
The project comprises 420 affordable housing units across approximately 31,330 m², organised into residential blocks around protected communal courtyards. Drawing on the European urban block typology, the masterplan establishes a network of pedestrian connections, landscaped public spaces and ground-floor commercial and community facilities, promoting social interaction and strengthening the relationship between the development and its surrounding neighbourhood.
Responding to the site's natural topography, the design incorporates multiple access levels, elevated walkways and connecting bridges, maximising the site's development potential while maintaining pedestrian accessibility. A rationalised construction system using concrete block masonry supports affordability and construction efficiency, while variations in building volumes and colours establish a distinct architectural identity.
The residential layouts prioritise flexibility and functionality, accommodating diverse family structures and providing opportunities for small home-based businesses. The development also incorporates accessible housing, recreational facilities and landscaped communal spaces, contributing to a more inclusive and connected urban environment.
My Role: Contributed to the architectural and urban design development, including spatial planning, residential layouts, site organisation and the development of architectural drawings. Collaborated with the project team and multidisciplinary consultants to coordinate design solutions and support the integration of the residential, landscape and infrastructure components.
BISELLI KATCHBORIAN ARCHITECTS
PHOTOS: Nelson Kon