SPATIAL REPRESENTATIONS BY THE USAGE IN THE TRADITIONAL AMAZONIAN DWELLING

Abstract

This article presents an analysis of spatial relations in traditional Amazonian stilt houses, situated in the Brazilian states of Pará and Maranhão, relying on the patterns systematized by Christopher Alexander in Latin American dwellings in Peru. We conducted qualitative research using a systematic observation technique. The similarities in spatial representation based on the use of the built environment were identified in the analyzed houses, providing evidence of the uniqueness of each place in the configuration of spaces and their representations. The identified aspects have potential for the instrumentalization of design practices, considering that such solutions appeared as typical aspects of Latin American houses, in general. They also illustrated the particular way in which the Amazonian people produce, use, and spatially relate to their housing. This knowledge is of great relevance to the field of architecture, considering that the plurality of Latin American spatial representations requires attention to information regarding local practices. The focus of territorialization in studies on Latin American housing highlights the recognition of the existence of native elements carrying significant content that may not be contemplated by hegemonic architectural thinking.