BACKGROUND
The Loja Urban Laboratory is a multi-stakeholder, creative, and innovative space that seeks to support and strengthen local public policy for the comprehensive improvement of neighborhoods and public space through a holistic and sustainable approach. The laboratory’s work contributes to building an inclusive, safe, and equitable city by strengthening an intervention model for peripheral urban neighborhoods, promoting planned and sustainable urban development while optimizing land use and occupancy. The core focus of comprehensive neighborhood improvement is based on the recovery, activation, and appropriation of public space through citizen participation, promoting universal access and enjoyment for all as an exercise of rights, and as a foundation for the right to the city.
COMPETITION
Urban artifacts are defined as creative, innovative, and artistic architectural elements designed to activate the public spaces where they are located, while creating a visual, cultural, and/or social impact within neighborhoods and enabling residents to develop a sense of belonging. These artifacts aim to create "icons" in peripheral neighborhoods and transform how residents perceive and use existing public space. The functions of these artifacts may include a variety of activities: contemplation, recreation, play, rest, production, and cultural or artistic expression, among others.
