Urban interventions in Covilhã, Portugal

(re)imagine communities and spaces

Abstract

The aim of this article is to look at different methodologies for urban interventions in the interior of Portugal, focusing on Bairro das Nogueiras, located in the parish of Teixoso, and the Tortosendo, Covilhã and Teixoso (TCT) road axis. By getting in touch with the territory through the "Bridges" project developed in 2022 under the National Healthy Neighborhoods Program, two approaches were developed. Firstly, on the TCT axis, the aim is to overcome socio-spatial isolation and rethink existing roads. An architectural and urban manifesto is proposed to reflect on and redesign local structures, with an emphasis on creating new public spaces. In a second approach, a laboratory was developed, which served as the basis for a design experiment related to "play" aimed at strengthening ties by connecting children with public space. Social integration, conscious urban design and contact with the community are emphasized to promote more inclusive urban environments.