Vernácula – Contemporary Territories is a quarterly publication of the Graduate Program in Architecture and Urbanism (Master’s Degree) at UNIVAG – University Center. It focuses on the study of design, management, and production of urban space, emphasizing regional and local urban interventions and encouraging sustainable processes of great interest to urban development policies. It serves as a communication channel for academic production that seeks to address the various issues discussed by the academic community and linked to the areas of urban planning and landscape design, environmental legislation, urban law; architectural, urban, and landscape heritage; planning of the built environment, territory, and environment; urban law and regulation; mobility and accessibility of the built environment; and object, product, and space design—in short, topics related to transformations in urban space and landscape—promoting an integrative approach between technical knowledge, professional practice, and the academic sector. ISSN: 2965-6125 (online format) Periodicity: Quarterly
Centro Universitário de Várzea Grande - UNIVAG
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Characterization of Natural Ventilation for Planning and Sustainable Projects
This study explores wind patterns in Tangará da Serra/MT to be used in urban planning and architectural design strategies. It focuses on characterizing wind conditions in wet and dry seasons, examining changes in wind direction and speed throughout the day. Wind speed and direction data are obtained from an anemometer from the UNEMAT campus, resulting in the creation of wind roses that illustrate the prevailing wind directions and speeds. In the dry season, high-speed east and northeast winds in the afternoon and early night present challenges, being hot, dry and carrying pollutants. Effective wind-blocking measures are essential to addressing these issues. On the other hand, cooler and moist winds from the southeast are suitable for sanitary ventilation. During the rainy season, winds are slower from mainly north and northeast directions in the afternoon and early at night. This presents opportunities for moisture regulation, better thermal comfort, and control of microorganism proliferation. Recommendations include the implementation of barriers to block dry season winds from the east, preserving tree vegetation, reinforcing open areas and higher buildings in appropriate parts of the city.
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Planning urban mobility and managing territory
The discussion regarding urban mobility has become indispensable for the development and growth of Brazilian cities. Finding planning and management strategies that address the dynamics of urban movement is one of the main challenges faced by public administration. This research aims to present urban projects that incorporate the concept of TOD (Transit-Oriented Development) into territorial and transport planning. Specifically, it seeks to discuss the definitions and scope of the idea of transit-oriented development, investigate the main characteristics of interventions carried out in Brazilian cities, highlight the positive and negative aspects of these interventions, and analyze them. The proposed research is theoretical and qualitative in nature, structured around the concept of narrative review. Based on the understanding of the procedures and the scope of the narrative review modality, the adopted methodology includes the following steps: selection of the research topic, definition of search terms (in this specific case: urban mobility, public collective transport, and transit-oriented development), use of academic databases (such as Google Scholar, EBSCO, CAPES Journals, SciELO, ScienceDirect, among others), selection of relevant articles through preliminary reading (of the title, abstract, keywords, introduction, and methodology), and finally, the construction of the proposed text. Theoretical analysis focused on cases of urban interventions carried out in the Brazilian capitals: Curitiba, Belo Horizonte, and Rio de Janeiro. The conclusion drawn from the examples presented throughout the research is that the application of the TOD concept is an important tool for improving mobility conditions and quality of life. However, actions aimed at transportation systems must effectively address the social and economic disparities inherent to the formation of territories. It is essential to develop and implement consistent plans aimed at promoting the right to the city.
Analysis of universal design practices in the standard social housing model by caixa econômica federal and its impact on the inclusion of individuals with different abilities and needs
Universal Design aims to develop projects that are accessible to all individuals, regardless of their physical conditions, promoting equality and independence for the greatest number of people. This article, therefore, aims to evaluate the parameters of Universal Design in a base proposal of the Minha Casa Minha Vida program, in order to study how housing projects are developed for low-income individuals who benefit from the program. To this end, studies were conducted through scientific articles, specialized websites, and magazines, in addition to the analysis of a base floor plan from the Minha Casa Minha Vida program, followed by the implementation of Universal Design parameters in the same plan. It was observed that, although the original layout did not meet the requirements imposed by Universal Design, the modifications increased the total built area by only 17.46%. It can be concluded that implementing Universal Design in the program’s base projects is feasible, providing greater quality of life for residents and project efficiency, while promoting greater equality in Brazilian society.
A study on the minha casa, minha vida (MCMV) program
This article aims to discuss the importance of Universal Design as a tool that promotes housing accessibility, focusing on its application within the scope of the Minha Casa, Minha Vida Program. The research adopts a theoretical-qualitative approach, based on an interdisciplinary bibliographic review in the areas of architecture, urban planning and accessibility studies, seeking to understand how the principles of Universal Design can be applied to ensure inclusive housing. The originality of the study lies in the critical analysis of a popular housing model from the perspective of accessibility, filling a gap regarding the effective integration of Universal Design in large-scale public housing policies. As a result, an intervention in the built environment is presented, easy to implement and low cost, which ensures accessibility to all rooms. The proposal demonstrates that small adaptations are capable of significantly transforming the usability of residential spaces for people with different levels of mobility. The theoretical and methodological contributions of the work lie in the practical application of the concepts of universal accessibility in a specific case. Socially, the study reinforces the need for more inclusive buildings, promoting equity in access to housing and raising awareness about the role of architecture in improving the quality of urban life.
Urban reading and participatory diagnosis in Barra do Bugres
This study analyzes the application of the CPE (Characteristics, Potentialities, and Constraints) methodology in the teaching of Urban Planning in the city of Barra do Bugres, Mato Grosso. The objective was to use the method as a pedagogical tool for the construction of integrated urban diagnoses and the elaboration of intervention proposals. The methodology used was action research with a qualitative approach. The study was based on the CPE methodology, an adaptation of the SWOT matrix, and involved field surveys and geospatial analyses carried out by students of Architecture and Urbanism. The originality of the work lies in its critique of traditional and fragmented teaching models, demonstrating the relevance of an active and critical pedagogical approach applied to small-scale cities with structural deficiencies. The results indicated problems such as irregular waste disposal, noise pollution, and the degradation of idle lots. Based on the diagnosis, guidelines were proposed focusing on urban mobility (creation of bike lanes), sustainable waste management (selective collection), and requalification of the tree canopy (planting in vacant areas). As a theoretical contribution, the research validates the CPE methodology as a pedagogical tool that articulates technical analysis and territorial sensitivity. The social and environmental contributions include the improvement of urban quality of life through the reduction of pollution, an increase in green cover, and the promotion of community engagement in the management of space.
Between the vacancy offered and effective participation
This article analysed whether the 2020 update of the Mato Grosso State Water Resources Policy, which included traditional communities as members of the CBHs, ensured active social participation by local groups in the Upper Cuiabá River CBH. To assess changes, meeting minutes were examined, counting and contextualising keywords indicative of social involvement, using the software AntConc v.4.1.0. The research highlights the need for mechanisms to make participation in these spaces effective, since mere formal inclusion does not guarantee a voice for the groups represented. The results show that although the mention of keywords that reflect possible social participation increased after 2020, this did not translate into effective action by traditional populations. The study opens up an important area to discuss not only access, but also the permanence and influence of these groups in decision-making arenas. From a methodological point of view, it is proposed to broaden the lexicon of analysis, incorporating terms that reflect the socio-environmental reality of the basin. The conclusion is that simply offering seats does not reflect the effective participation of these communities. Furthermore, public policies must ensure real conditions for these communities to exercise their rights in order to prevent their interests from continuing to be mediated by the voices of others.
Climate Emergency and the Construction of Resilient Cities
The article addresses the challenges of the climate emergency in Petrópolis, Rio de Janeiro, a city vulnerable to landslides and floods due to its mountainous topography and disorderly urban growth. Based on a literature review and public policy analysis, the study highlights extreme events, such as the 2011 and 2022 rains, which caused deaths and significant economic losses. The research proposes strategies to build urban resilience, including green infrastructure, adaptive planning, climate monitoring technologies, and community engagement. It concludes that the integration of these measures is essential to mitigate the impacts of climate change, ensuring safety and sustainability for the population. The study reinforces the need for coordinated actions between government and society to transform Petrópolis into a more resilient city.
Sustainable civil construction as a response to the climate emergency
Currently, the discussion on sustainability has gained prominence, with a growing interest in more sustainable practices and products. This approach offers significant environmental benefits, in addition to promoting savings and improving quality of life, integrating environmental, social and economic aspects. Thus, society seeks homes that adopt measures that favor environmental preservation and, at the same time, improve their well-being. The concept of sustainable construction involves the application of technological innovations throughout the entire construction production chain. This translates into works that are more efficient, cause less environmental impact and promote a better quality of life, from the extraction of raw materials to the completion of the building. Although saving water and energy are often associated with sustainability, these aspects, although of fundamental importance, are not the only ones to be considered. This article entitled "Sustainability in Civil Construction" aims to analyze sustainable practices in the construction sector, highlighting their contributions to reducing environmental and social impacts. The methodology adopted involves a qualitative approach, using literature review. The main results indicate that the adoption of sustainable techniques, such as the use of recyclable materials and waste management systems, can result in significant financial savings and minimize environmental impacts. In addition, sustainable practices promote people's health and well-being. The theoretical contributions include a new perspective on the intersection between sustainability and civil construction, proposing a model that can be applied in future research.
Geospatial and thermal assessment of permanent preservation areas in the mata do buraquinho
This study aims to conduct an environmental and thermal analysis of the Permanent Preservation Areas (APPs) of the Mata do Buraquinho, located in João Pessoa, Paraíba, focusing on the characterization of native vegetation and its influence on the urban microclimate. The research uses Landsat-8 satellite imagery (OLI sensor) and the Digital Elevation Model (DEM) from TopoData, processed using QGIS software, allowing spatial and thermal analysis of the area. The originality of the study lies in the integration of geotechnological tools to investigate the role of urban APPs in climate regulation and biodiversity conservation, a topic still underexplored in the context of major cities in the Brazilian Northeast. The results indicate that the APPs of Mata do Buraquinho play a crucial role in mitigating urban heat islands, contributing to the maintenance of humidity, milder temperatures, and environmental quality in the surrounding urban area. The transformation of the area into a Botanical Garden, as established by a state decree, reinforces its ecological and scientific value. Theoretically, the study contributes to the understanding of urban APPs as essential green infrastructure for sustainable urban planning. Methodologically, it demonstrates the potential of remote sensing and GIS tools in assessing urban ecosystem services. Socially and environmentally, the findings emphasize the importance of preserving and valuing these areas for urban well-being and the development of environmentally sensitive public policies.
Analysis of the contributions of the urban mobility as a service (MaaS) concept to urban mobility planning and management
Finding strategies capable of minimizing the current state of urban mobility in Brazilian cities has become one of the main challenges for public managers and researchers. In this regard, Cunha et al. (2016) highlight technology as a potential tool for improving the existing scenario. According to the authors, the inclusion of technology in planning and management processes creates an opportunity to integrate different transport modes and strengthen the mobility network. Given this context, the objective is to discuss the potential and limitations of the concept of Mobility as a Service (MaaS). To this end, a narrative review is adopted. The methodology includes the following steps: selection of the research topic, definition of search terms (specifically for this study: urban mobility, public collective transport, and transit-oriented development), use of academic databases (such as Google Scholar, EBSCO, CAPES Journals, SciELO, ScienceDirect, among others), selection of relevant articles through preliminary reading (title, abstract, keywords, introduction, and methodology), and finally, construction of the proposed text. Upon completion of this process, it was found that the effectiveness of the MaaS concept in mobility planning depends on broader factors: the functioning of Information and Communication Technologies (ICT), planning integrated with the transport network, participatory governance, the creation of policies aimed at discouraging the use of private vehicles, and the improvement of urban infrastructure. Thus, it becomes clear that the concept has the potential to enhance mobility, but it depends on a range of other measures developed in conjunction.
The Vila Mariana neighborhood in Sinop-MT and the dynamics of socio-spatial segregation
The production of urban space, in accordance with capitalist logic, occurs by promoting socio-spatial inequality. Within this context, conflicting relationships between social classes emerge, with each group defending its own interests, thus consolidating unequal spaces. Based on this premise, the general objective of this study was to analyze how the process of socio-spatial segregation takes place in the city and the disturbances it causes for the segregated population, focusing on the neighborhood of Vila Mariana in Sinop (Mato Grosso state, Brazil) as the area of analysis. The specific objectives were defined as follows: to verify whether the neighborhood can be considered a space of socio-spatial segregation; to investigate how this process unfolds; and to analyze the role of public administration in this process. To achieve these objectives, bibliographic research was used to provide both theoretical and methodological support; field research was conducted to take photographic records and carry out sistematic observation, using a pre-established script to describe the physical characteristics of the study area, as well as extensive direct observation through the completion of questionnaires with neighborhood residents to assess housing and income conditions, level of education, employment status, and access to basic urban services. The collected information was analyzed in aggregate form to ensure the anonymity of respondents. The research findings reveal precarious housing conditions, economic vulnerability, and dissatisfaction with public services, all of which together demonstrate the socio-spatial segregation imposed on the neighborhood and the limited action of public administration to mitigate this process.
This article presents a historical perspective on the debate about Sustainability in contemporary architectural production. It evidences that the integration between construction and nature constitutes a perennial characteristic of buildings. The research adopts a theoretical-comparative approach that articulates the foundations of traditional building practices, conditioned by climatic, cultural, and material factors of the local context. The objective is to analyze how principles of vernacular and historical architecture are reinterpreted by contemporary Sustainability theories, identifying conceptual convergences and empirical evidence of environmental performance and promotion of user well-being. The results indicate that, in seeking reduced environmental impact and grater connection with the natural environment, contemporary sustainable architecture realings itself with vernacular strategies, optimized by material technologies and resource management systems. It is concluded that the combination of ancestral wisdom and technological innovation is crucial to the design of more sustainable and healthier solutions for the future. This integration provides a sense od belonging, greater harmony with the local context, low energy consumption, and reduced environmental impact. It is recommended to conduct quantitative performance studies and investigations into bioinspired materials, as well as post-occupancy research to assess the socio-environmental benefits of buildings that associate tradition and innovation.
Surface temperature estimation methods and their relationship with urban land use
The urbanization process generates significant impacts on the urban climate, such as the intensification of heat islands. This study aims to review the methods for estimating surface temperature and their relationship with land use/land cover in urban areas, seeking to identify technological advances in the development of such studies. The methodology consists of a systematic literature review in national and international databases, focusing on publications from the last five years and applying selection criteria based on methodological quality and relevance to the topic. The results highlight the frequent use of Landsat 5 and 8 satellite imagery, processed with Geographic Information System (GIS) software, such as ArcGIS and QuantumGIS (QGIS). For land use classification, analyses have been conducted using the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and the Normalized Difference Built-up Index (NDBI), while surface temperature estimation is performed using Planck's Equation. Recent advances include the application of machine learning techniques, the development of new biophysical indices, and improvements in analytical accuracy.
Impacts of urban tree planting on air temperature and relative humidity in an urban expansion area of Cuiabá-MT
This study assesses the impact of tree insertion strategies on air temperature and relative humidity in a section of the eastern urban expansion area of Cuiabá-MT, under conditions of high temperatures and low humidity, aiming to mitigate the adverse effects of urban climate. The research employed the ENVI-met microclimate simulation tool to model blocks and streets with high imperviousness and minimal vegetation during the hot/wet period. Hypothetical scenarios were simulated with trees arranged in blocks to maximise shading and evapotranspiration, and along a street to form a green corridor. The work addresses the gap in quantitative studies on the role of vegetation in improving air temperature and relative humidity in urban expansion areas in Brazil’s Central-West region, highlighting the relevance of nature-based solutions in tropical contexts. The simulations revealed a significant reduction in air temperature during peak hours and an increase in relative humidity, indicating reduced thermal stress with the presence of vegetation. The study provides quantitative data to support sustainable urban planning, validating the application of ENVI-met in tropical climates. The findings support guidelines for more resilient cities, promoting thermal comfort, climate impact mitigation, and healthier urban environments.
Marta Cristina de Jesus Albuquerque Nogueira
This study examines the housing conditions of indigenous populations in urban contexts. It aims to investigate the spatial dynamics and traditional dwellings of the Guarani-Kaiowá people in Naviraí-MS, Brazil, analyzing the necessary architectural and cultural adaptations for contemporary housing needs. The research employs a mixed-methods approach, combining literature review, document analysis, case study, and field research. These methods systematically compared data collected, yielding a theoretical framework for spatial relationships in designing contemporary Indigenous settlements. Key findings reveal that traditional territorial spaces maintain symbolic significance even in urban areas yet face dual challenges: inadequate adaptation of housing projects to collective and cultural needs and insufficient public infrastructure management. The study concludes that addressing Indigenous urban housing requires an interdisciplinary approach integrating architecture, urban planning, anthropology, and public policy to reconcile territoriality, sustainability, cultural identity, and modern living conditions.
Bioclimatic study of the pantanal territory
This article analyzes the climatic, physical, and sociospatial characteristics of the municipality of Miranda-MS, located in the ecological transition zone between the Cerrado and the Pantanal, and discusses how these factors influence environmental comfort in urban and architectural contexts. The research integrates climatic data from the ProjetEEE platform with thematic maps (geology, geomorphology, pedology, and vegetation) and considers the local socioeconomic reality, highlighting the vulnerability of peripheral populations. The results indicate that Miranda experiences a prolonged period of thermal discomfort throughout the year, intensified by inadequate urban infrastructure in underprivileged areas. The study proposes accessible bioclimatic guidelines adapted to the local social conditions, based on the integration of traditional knowledge and contemporary strategies for urban resilience.
Changes in use and appropriation of public space
The study aims to analyze the use and appropriation of the public space of the Airport Waterfront, located on Duque de Caxias Avenue, in Campo Grande/MS. The research adopts a qualitative and descriptive approach, using the case study method, using systematic observation techniques, photographic records, analysis of news reports and journalistic content. The discussion is based on the informal modes of urban appropriation and their implications for urban planning in the local reality. The results indicate that the Airport Waterfront has become an important meeting and leisure point for the population of Campo Grande as a whole, not just the local population, even without adequate infrastructure. Activities such as physical exercise, food consumption, social interaction and outdoor leisure were observed, despite the lack of toilets, trash cans, parking and regulation of street vendors. As main contributions, the study brings an understanding of the urban dynamics based on the informal appropriation of the aforementioned space and the ways in which these practices reveal social demands ignored by formal planning. From a social and environmental perspective, the work concludes on the importance of developing public policies that consider these spontaneous uses and that promote improvements, with the participation of users.
Social housing and socio-spatial segregation
The presence and actions of various agents in the process of urban space production reveal how cities are continuously shaped by diverse, often conflicting, interests. The actions of these agents directly influence the formation and (re)production of urban spaces, demonstrating that the infrastructure and organization of cities are strongly shaped by social dynamics, which materialize in urban space. Under capitalist logic, unequal and segregated spaces are thus created. In this context, this article presents the results of research that sought to analyze how social housing in the Mário Raiter neighborhood in Sorriso (Mato Grosso state, Brazil) contributes to the (re)production of socio-spatial segregation in the municipality. The methodology adopted combines bibliographic, documentary, field research, and cartographic production, integrating theoretical frameworks with observable reality, which allowed for a critical analysis of the results. It became evident that the social housing in this neighborhood contributes to the (re)production of socio-spatial segregation in Sorriso, particularly due to its location, infrastructure, and access to services, in contrast to the western part of the city.
Application of heat index in urban area with tropical climate
The research analyzes human comfort conditions in the city of Cuiabá, Mato Grosso, using the Steadman Heat Index (HI), based on the region’s tropical climate classification, according to the Köppen system (1936). The study focuses on the hot-dry season, which predominates in the capital for approximately seven months each year, due to the irregular distribution of rainfall, concentrated between November and March. The methodology consists of applying the Heat Index to local climate data to verify the relationship between the results and the population’s thermal perception. The study aims to contribute to the democratization of knowledge about thermal comfort, providing accessible information to the general public — usually unfamiliar with the subject — and technical support to public administrators to guide urban and environmental policies focused on improving quality of life.
Anne Gabrielly Santos Pécora de Oliveira
Analysis of solar absorptance and its thermal impact in a tropical region
This study analyzes the thermal impact of absorptance on façades of different colors in the city of Cuiabá-MT, a tropical climate region with high solar incidence. The objective of this analysis is to contribute to design choices that promote urban thermal comfort. The methodology encompasses on-site data collection through surface temperature measurements using a digital infrared thermometer and thermal camera, as well as monitoring climatic conditions with a thermohygrometer. The study was conducted on a single façade, which was divided into three paint shades (light, medium, and dark) to analyze the three colors under the same solar incidence during the hot-humid period. The findings demonstrated the impact of varying levels of absorptance on the diurnal temperature fluctuations of façades, offering insights that inform façade design principles in tropical regions. The objective of the research is to promote the development of more efficient and comfortable buildings, with a reduced reliance on artificial air conditioning systems. This approach is intended to contribute to urban sustainability and the quality of life in hot cities.
Microclimatic impacts of sidewalk tree planting in tropical climate regions
This research investigates, through computational simulation, the microclimatic benefits provided by the implementation of tree vegetation on urban sidewalks, considering its effectiveness as a microclimatic mitigation strategy. The methodology involved computational modeling using the ENVI-met software, validated through empirical data collected on-site, allowing simulations of an urban environment with and without roadside tree planting. The greatest benefits of sidewalk tree planting for pedestrians occurred at 2:00 PM, with a reduction of up to -10°C in PET index values due to a decrease in air temperature (Ta) by -1°C, an increase in relative humidity (RH) by 3%, a reduction in mean radiant temperature (MRT) by -5°C, and an increase in air velocity (Va). However, an increase in MRT was observed at night and early morning, highlighting the so-called “umbrella effect,” which led to a slight rise in nighttime thermal stress levels. The study reinforces the importance of vegetation as an urban sidewalk infrastructure to reduce pedestrian thermal stress levels during the daytime in tropical climate regions. From a social and environmental perspective, the strategic incorporation of roadside tree planting provides greater climate resilience and thermal comfort, contributing to public policies for climate change adaptation. It is recommended the expansion of research with different species, densities, and seasonal conditions to improve urban climate planning.
Thermal perception reported by university students in spaces with and without the presence of natural elements in the landscape
Gardens are open-air spaces that serve an aesthetic function by creating a pleasant and welcoming environment for users. This study aims to assess whether the passive observation of a garden within a university campus can influence the thermal recovery reported by university students. To investigate this, groups of volunteers were exposed to two adjacent outdoor spaces with contrasting visual conditions: one group observed the wall of a building, while the other viewed a garden. Simultaneously, microclimatic measurements were conducted, and thermal comfort questionnaires were applied to gather information about the environment and participants' thermal perception. The results indicated that students in the garden space reported a lower thermal sensation compared to those in the wall space. The visual stimulus provided by the natural landscape elements had a positive effect on the participants' thermal recovery, suggesting that gardens have the potential to function as restorative spaces. The findings are still preliminary and need to be further explored through a larger number of interviews.
Green áreas and socio-spatial inequality
Urban green areas hold significant importance in the city, not only for aesthetic and beautification purposes, but also for contributing to the promotion of quality of life due to their ecological, social, and economic functions. Based on this premise, the study aimed to highlight socio-spatial inequality in Sinop (Mato Grosso state, Brazil) through the challenges faced by residents of peripheral neighborhoods, such as Bom Jardim, Vida Nova, and Comunidade Vitória, in accessing green areas. To conduct the study, extensive direct observation was employed through the use of questionnaires administered to residents, containing both open and closed questions about their socioeconomic conditions, access to green spaces, and level of satisfaction with public services provided in their neighborhoods. The results revealed that the local population belongs to a low-income social class, faces a high level of insecurity, lacks green spaces for leisure, and is dissatisfied with the public services provided by the local government. These findings demonstrate that access to green areas for populations living in the peripheries is limited, which can be considered a contributing factor to the process of socio-spatial inequality in the city.
Environmental sustainability and urban permanence of vernacular wooden architecture in the context of climate change
In the 1950s, the abundance of noble timber and local knowledge solidified vernacular wood architecture as a constructive solution for the climatic context of Naviraí, located in the transitional climate region of the Southern Cone. However, predatory exploitation and the expansion of agribusiness led to a significant decline in wood as a building material. Today, a representative number of wooden houses remain in the municipality. Despite this, there is a lack of research correlating their urban persistence, environmental qualities, and recognition as an integral part of the city's history and memory. Thus, this study aims to investigate the historical process of the timber cycle in the consolidation of Naviraí's urban space, understanding the relationship between this process and the perceived value of vernacular wood architecture and its environmental characteristics. To achieve this, a dual methodological approach was adopted, considering both qualitative and quantitative procedures. This research conducted a historical investigation in literature and primary documentation; the researcher's team conducted a structured interview with a historical figure in the city's formation, and the Naviraí population responded to a questionnaire. Based on data systematization, the research concluded that vernacular wooden houses remain an appropriate, environmentally sustainable response to the region's current climate change context. The study also found that wooden houses represent a sense of identity and belonging, in addition to being understood as an integral part of the architectural and urban memory of Naviraí.
Environmental management in São Paulo’s metropolitan regions
This study aims to analyze the degree of institutional, operational, and performance structuring of public environmental policies in municipalities of the state of São Paulo, with a comparative focus between Metropolitan Regions (MRs) and non-metropolitan municipalities. The methodology is descriptive in nature, based on the analysis of data extracted from the Municipal Management Effectiveness Index (IEGM), specifically the i-Amb dimension, provided by the Tribunal de Contas do Estado de São Paulo (TCE-SP). The theoretical framework is grounded in both classical and contemporary references in environmental management and governance. The originality of the research lies in the combination of an official, standardized database with a territorial metropolitan approach, revealing a gap still underexplored in the literature: the comparative performance of environmental management across regions with different socio-spatial characteristics. The results indicate that although there is a high degree of institutionalization (with over 94% of municipalities having formal structures and human resources for environmental management), there are still weaknesses in areas such as technical training, workforce stability, and policy effectiveness. The study contributes theoretically by highlighting the importance of territorially contextualized environmental governance and methodologically by proposing a comparative systematization of municipal data. Socially and environmentally, the findings suggest pathways for more equitable and effective public policies, aimed at reducing regional asymmetries and strengthening local environmental governance capacity.
This study aims to evaluate the influence of different tree species on the microclimate and thermal comfort of pedestrians on urban sidewalks in a tropical climate region. The methodology consisted of analyzing eight points around the square near the university restaurant of the Federal University of Mato Grosso (UFMT), using portable meteorological instruments, and conducting questionnaires with volunteer pedestrians. The mPET index (Modified Physiological Equivalent Temperature) was calculated to measure pedestrians' thermal sensation at the stopping points along the transect. The originality of the research lies in the combination of technical measurements, subjective user perceptions, and morphological characterization of the analyzed spaces, revealing the importance of urban tree planting for sustainable urban planning. The points with higher tree density and size (such as P5, P6, and P8) exhibited lower levels of heat stress while reducing thermal perception, while also promoting the well-being of volunteers. In contrast, areas with little tree coverage (P1 and P3) had a more intense heat sensation. The study highlights the importance of the arboreal type and the strategic positioning of urban greenery for mitigating thermal discomfort, and promoting more livable and resilient urban environments.
Parametric modeling methodology for built heritage
HBIM (Heritage Building Information Modeling) enables the creation of detailed documentation on construction methods, materials, and the conservation status of listed historical buildings within an interoperable 3D modeling environment. The richness of detail embedded in an HBIM model facilitates heritage conservation efforts by systematizing geometric data on structural and aesthetic components of the building. Examples include parametric object libraries of the same family, such as windows, vernacular masonry walls, ceilings, floors, and other elements with their individual characteristics, which are essential for the building's historical representation. This systematic review was conducted to identify the key information that should be included in the parametric modeling of a digital twin for listed buildings, as well as the surveying methods commonly used in HBIM. The methodology involved a systematic literature review of publications in Portuguese, English, and Spanish from the last nine years. The results highlight the importance of parameterizing construction-related data in these buildings, as the information stored in HBIM parametric families documents their construction processes, thereby preserving the history and materialized memory of built heritage.
The green areas in the city of Goiás/GO historical type area
This article analyzes the green areas in the historic city of Goiás/GO, specifically in the Architectural and Urban Complex listed by the Union since 1978 and declared a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO since December 2001. The research aims to identify and quantify the green areas through the Green Area Index (IAV), Percentage of Green Areas (PAV) and Index of Open Spaces for Public Use (IELUP), highlighting their importance for urban sustainability and the preservation of historical heritage. The survey was conducted through field visits and analysis of satellite images. The results obtained assist in sustainable urban planning and specific strategies for mitigating environmental problems, such as floods and environmental degradation.
David Alves Finotti Camardelli de Azerêdo
This article aims to investigate the role of urban furniture as a strategic element in the construction of resilient and sustainable cities, considering the contemporary challenges imposed by climate change, social dynamics and technological transformations. Through a narrative literature review, aspects relevant to life in cities, such as sustainable design, urban ecology, and climate resilience, are presented, using reference cases to illustrate the issues raised. Among the theoretical contributions, the articulation between concepts of urban resilience and circular economy stands out, emphasizing a systemic and integrated approach to the design of these elements. The main results indicate that urban furniture, when designed based on principles such as modularity, durability, environmental intelligence and flexibility of use, can significantly contribute to mitigating the effects of climate change, promoting social justice and expanding the potentiality of public spaces. The results demonstrate that smart, adaptable and inclusive urban furniture has the potential to foster community belonging, democratize the use of urban space and improve the environmental quality of cities.
Immersion in architectural virtual environments
This study aims to investigate the influence of vegetation on the immersive experience in Immersive Virtual Environments (IVEs) applied to architecture, focusing on the perception of spatial presence, involvement, and realism. The methodology involved applying the Igroup Presence Questionnaire (IPQ) in two architectural courtyard IVEs, one with vegetation and one without, to evaluate the subjective responses of 10 participants. The originality of the research lies in the specific analysis of the impact of landscape composition on virtual architectural experiences, a still underexplored area, especially in the Brazilian context. The main results indicate that spatial presence was perceived similarly in both environments, while the environment without vegetation showed slightly higher participant involvement. Realism, however, was significantly more valued in the vegetated IVE, highlighting the contribution of vegetation to visual authenticity. These findings point to the relevance of natural elements in enhancing immersive experiences, as well as the sensitivity of the IPQ in assessing nuances of virtual immersion. As a theoretical and methodological contribution, the study provides support for the development and evaluation of more realistic and effective architectural IVEs, while socially and environmentally reinforcing the importance of vegetation for positive spatial perception, potentially influencing both virtual and real architectural projects.