Diseño de un centro comunitario y reactivación urbana: lo interactivo y la cohesión social, en Cuenca-Ecuador

Abstract

This preliminary project focused on the architectural design of a future community center in the sector of El Ejido-4, Sucre parish, in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador. Its purpose was to foster social cohesion and the integral development of the community, particularly in urban areas with limited recreational and educational infrastructure. This project aimed to propose a design that would enable future recovery and revitalization of the public space as an inclusive, safe, and accessible environment, promoting citizen participation and social integration through cultural, recreational, and formative activities. The proposal was developed at the architectural preliminary design level, prioritizing flexibility of uses and integrating green spaces, recreation areas, multifunctional classrooms, and leisure zones. Principles of universal accessibility, sustainability, and urban resilience were incorporated to ensure that the design meets the needs of people of different ages and socioeconomic groups. Furthermore, programmatic guidelines oriented towards community participation were established, considering the future incorporation of residents in the center's planning and management process to strengthen a sense of belonging and ownership of the space. Overall, the preliminary project proposes the creation of a dynamic public space that, once constructed, will foster social interaction, reduce inequalities, and generate opportunities for personal and collective development, consolidating itself as a future catalyst for social integration and urban regeneration in the city of Cuenca.