Research Line in Theory and History of Design
Advisor: Ana Luiza Nobre
Dissertation: Urbe Ludens: Games, Playful Practices, and Urban Participation
Defense date: 26/03/2023
Abstract:
The objective of this research is to explore the potential of playful practices
as mechanisms for participation and dialogue with the non-specialized public, in
projects related to architecture and the city, to promote democratic performance in
the city. Based on the idea, developed by Johan Huizinga, that games are cultural
builders, some playful practices in the field of architecture are presented and
discussed. Based on the game categories defined by Roger Caillois, two games are
developed for specific contexts in Rio de Janeiro: Rocinha and Gamboa. By
understanding participation as a game, in the sense of dispute, recognition of forces,
negotiation and conflict, it is proposed with these experiences the articulation of
“player communities” and the development of civic culture. This experience aims
to question the extent to which games can stimulate a more democratic city
experience by seeking to define them as builders of urban consciousness.