Feli(cidade). O papel da Arquitetura habitacional na construção da plenitude humana

Abstract

The purpose of this dissertation is to expose a reflection about the role of architecture in the construction of Human Happiness and, more specifically, about the way space conception - in its conceptual, formal, functional, environmental and material components - may be laboured in such a way that helps to increase positive life experiences. The reach of this work was bounded to the field of the dwelling, as this kind of construction usually contains in itself the spaces where the most intimate and private human experiences take place, making it an unique object for the study of the appropriation, belonging, memory and emotional aspects that connect a Human Being to his space. This theme gains a special importance in the current setting of crisis, that confronted clients and professionals with the need to redefine what is really essential, to establish priorities and to obtain better results with less means. Another advantage this approach is the fact that the content of this thesis is intelligible not only for architecs but for the generality of citizens, as most people had/has the experience of inhabiting a home. o In the 1st part of this dissertation, the study will focus on the concept of "Happiness", its definition, the factors that affect the Human Being in his efforts to achieve a more satisfactory and whole life, the indicators usually applied to measure "Happiness"/"Well-Being"/"Quality of Life" and the countries whose initiatives may be considered good examples in this area. o In the 2nd part of this dissertation, the study will build on on the case studies, selected among examples of housing architecture that are located in countries with high values of "Happiness"/"Well-Being"/"Quality of Life". The general purpose will be to compare and analyse the chosen housing architecture projects considering the elements previously identified as relevant for the increase of the well-being and pleasure levels. The expected result of this effort - to identify drawing and construction principles that help to enhace the comfort/psychological satisfaction levels and analyse examples of its application - is to bring additional inputs to the reflection about new ways of inhabiting and conceiving a home. These new orientations should be increasingly more sensitive and efficient in the response to Man's needs and wills.