ARCHI URBAIN (15/37) : Paulo Mendes da Rocha + MMBB / SESC 24 de Maio

Summary

The transcript discusses the architectural design and societal role of the SESC building at 24 de Maio in São Paulo. The speaker explains how the SESC, a patronal institution for commerce workers, creates spaces for cultural, recreational, and educational activities. The building's design emphasizes open spaces, verticality, and accessibility, offering a sense of inclusivity for all, regardless of social background. Notably, the SESC is described as a 'machine' that adapts to various uses, providing an urban refuge for people from all walks of life. The design is praised for integrating the structure with the city while maintaining a functional, community-centered environment.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Sesc (Social Service of Commerce) is a patronage institution funded by commercial employers to provide recreational and educational services for employees in the commerce sector.
• 😀 The Sesc builds large facilities in accessible urban areas, investing significant amounts of money to create spaces that cater to sports, culture, and leisure.
• 😀 The Sesc 24 de Maio building in São Paulo is a prime example of adaptive reuse, where a former department store was converted into a multi-functional public space with numerous cultural and recreational offerings.
• 😀 The architectural challenge in the Sesc 24 de Maio project was to integrate various public spaces (e.g., swimming pools, theaters, and gardens) in a vertical building, ensuring spatial continuity despite the building’s height.
• 😀 The rooftop pool area is a key feature of the building, offering a unique outdoor space with a garden and sunbathing area for visitors, contributing to the building’s sense of openness and accessibility.
• 😀 The Sesc 24 de Maio building uses its vertical design to address space limitations, with services and facilities like water reservoirs and elevators located in separate annex spaces, keeping the main building free of these elements.
• 😀 The building’s architectural design includes large, open spaces and glass facades to allow natural ventilation, while also being resilient to weather conditions like wind and rain.
• 😀 The Sesc building serves as a 'machine of the city,' a dynamic space constantly adapting to changing uses, representing the evolving needs of urban life and culture.
• 😀 The Sesc 24 de Maio is designed to be an open and democratic space where people from different socio-economic backgrounds feel welcome, offering an environment of inclusivity and access for all.
• 😀 The building includes internal passageways and galleries, allowing people to move freely from one side of the block to the other, making it a highly accessible and integrated part of São Paulo’s urban fabric.

Q & A

What is the purpose of SESC?

SESC (Serviço Social do Comércio) is a public institution funded by a tax on commerce, designed to provide recreational, educational, and cultural services to workers in the commerce sector. Its goal is to enhance the well-being of employees through various programs and activities.

How does SESC support workers in the commerce sector?

SESC supports workers by offering services such as sports, leisure activities, visual arts, theater, dance, and educational programs. These services are made accessible to employees of the commerce sector, helping to improve their quality of life.

What kind of architectural challenges did the SESC 24 de Maio building face?

The main challenge for the SESC 24 de Maio building was adapting an existing department store into a multi-functional space while maintaining accessibility. The design had to balance the vertical structure with a diverse program that included cultural, recreational, and educational spaces.

How did the architects overcome the challenge of limited space in the SESC 24 de Maio building?

The architects overcame the space limitations by designing the building vertically, utilizing multiple floors to house different functions. Key areas like the pool and gardens were placed on higher levels to maximize the available space without expanding the building footprint.

Why was it important for the building to be open to the public?

It was important for the building to be open to the public in order to promote inclusivity and social interaction. The design allowed for easy access, making it a democratic space where people from all socioeconomic backgrounds could come together, regardless of their social status.

What are some key features of the SESC 24 de Maio building?

Key features of the SESC 24 de Maio building include a swimming pool, a theater, visual arts spaces, dance studios, gardens, and recreational areas. The building is designed to offer a variety of public services and cultural activities under one roof.

How does the design of the building contribute to the urban fabric of São Paulo?

The design of the SESC 24 de Maio building integrates with the urban fabric of São Paulo by being a public space that is open and accessible. It contributes to the city’s inclusivity by allowing free movement across the building and creating a place where people from different backgrounds can interact.

What architectural elements in the building enhance its openness and accessibility?

The building’s wide pedestrian galleries and open layout contribute to its accessibility. There are no barriers or gates, allowing people to pass through freely, making the space more inviting and fostering a sense of openness.

What sustainability measures were implemented in the renovation of the SESC 24 de Maio building?

Sustainability measures included preserving the existing structure to minimize waste, while incorporating new elements made of steel and concrete. The project reused the original foundation and structure, reducing the environmental impact and promoting resource efficiency.

How does the building address social inclusivity in its design?

The building promotes social inclusivity by offering a space where all individuals, regardless of their social or economic status, can engage with public services. The design encourages interaction and access, particularly for marginalized groups who might otherwise feel excluded from public spaces.