At a time when housing is at the center of public and political debate, involving various sectors of society, it is important to discuss the extent to which the industrialization of construction and architectural practice can offer concrete solutions to this challenge. Between goals of greater efficiency, cost reduction, and increased scale, and limitations related to quality, urban context, and actual accessibility, a space for reflection opens up regarding the effective scope of these solutions.
In a session moderated by Alexandra Paio, we propose a debate on the processes in architecture that precede the final design, featuring presentations by architects José Toral and Samuel Gonçalves.
Throughout the session, projects by both professionals will be presented, serving as important case studies for the discussion of prefabrication and other alternative approaches to the production of collective housing.
The discussion will also extend to the housing policy models currently in force in Portugal and Spain, fostering a broader reflection on the topic.
José Toral, an architect who graduated from ETSAB, is a co-founder of the Peris+Toral studio, located in Barcelona, and an associate professor, with work that is widely recognized and has received international awards, including distinctions such as the 2022 CSCAE Award and the Matilde Baffa Ugo Rivolta European Award.
Samuel Gonçalves, a graduate of FAUP, is the founder of SUMMARY and is known for developing innovative solutions for rapid construction, having gained international recognition since his participation in the 2016 Venice Biennale.
Alexandra Paio is an associate professor at Iscte and has held various academic and scientific coordination positions in fields such as digital architecture, design, and urban planning. She has also served as vice president of the Lisbon Regional Section of the Order of Architects since 2023. She received an honorable mention in the 2022 Forma Award and regularly publishes opinion pieces.
The session will take place on May 15, at 6:00 p.m., at the Roca Lisboa Gallery. Admission to the event is free, but registration is required as seating is limited.