In the sprawling landscape of Brazilian architecture, a hidden gem lies in the form of the Centros de Atenção Integral à Criança e ao Adolescente (CAICs), a network of educational complexes designed to provide comprehensive care for children and adolescents. Originally envisioned by the renowned architect João Filgueiras Lima, known as Lelé, these centers were meant to revolutionize education infrastructure across the country. However, only a fraction of the planned 5,000 units were ever built, leaving behind a legacy of underutilized potential and a wealth of lessons for the construction industry.
Ivanilson Santos Pereira, a researcher from the University of São Paulo’s Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism, has delved into the intricacies of these centers, publishing his findings in the journal Oculum Ensaios, which translates to Oculum Essays. His work sheds light on the challenges faced by the remaining CAICs, which, despite their innovative design, often fall into disrepair due to poor maintenance and mismanagement.
Pereira’s study reveals that the primary issue lies in the initial planning stages. “The lack of rigor in choosing the lots and adhering to the implantation requirements was the first stumbling block for the functioning of these complexes,” Pereira explains. This oversight cascaded into problems at the building and component levels, leading to the use of unplanned materials and solutions that compromised the structural integrity and longevity of the centers.
The CAICs were designed with a focus on prefabrication and the use of reinforced mortar, techniques that were ahead of their time. However, the deviation from these original plans has resulted in a patchwork of structures that are costly to maintain and repair. Pereira’s analysis highlights the importance of adhering to the original design intent, not just for aesthetic reasons, but for practical and economic ones as well.
For the construction industry, particularly the energy sector, the lessons from the CAICs are clear. The initial choices made in project planning and execution can have long-term impacts on energy efficiency and operational costs. Prefabrication, for instance, can significantly reduce construction time and waste, leading to lower energy consumption during the building process. Similarly, the use of durable materials like reinforced mortar can enhance the energy efficiency of buildings, reducing heating and cooling costs over time.
Pereira’s research underscores the need for a more holistic approach to construction projects, one that considers not just the immediate costs but also the long-term implications. As the energy sector continues to evolve, with a growing emphasis on sustainability and efficiency, the insights from the CAICs could shape future developments in the field. By learning from the past, the industry can build a more sustainable and efficient future.
The story of the CAICs is a testament to the power of good design and the importance of adhering to it. As Pereira’s work published in Oculum Ensaios shows, the choices made at the outset of a project can have far-reaching consequences. For the construction industry, the lessons are clear: invest in good planning, stick to the original design, and prioritize sustainability. The future of construction depends on it.
