Valledolmo 2030: Instant crush. Social Housing community and Movida pavilion in the Roccafanara district

Abstract

The energy, ecological, and digital transition is gaining significant momentum in the European cultural and social landscape, influencing local practices and policies, and redefining certain themes in architectural design. In this context, the present study focuses on the theme of transition through the continuity of the research-action conducted by LabCity Architecture (DARCH-UNIPA) in synergy with the Municipality of Valledolmo, integrating into a broader program of transformation of the Minor Centres within the territories included in the Trasversale Sicula. Addressing the issue of housing transition in the Minor Centres of Sicily allows for an in-depth exploration of the specific challenges of temporary housing, developing modalities, methodologies, and design approaches through the experimentation of Social Housing Community. This new way of conceiving dwelling fits into the idea of a social and changing community. Such an innovative urban project aims to improve and enhance the existing material and cultural heritage, along with public space. By contributing to the definition of new ways of living that can support ecological and energy transition, the developed projects combine open space layouts with residences for a renewed community, accommodating migrant families, self-sufficient elderly individuals, and young returning graduates to live temporarily in Valledolmo. The "Valledolmo Paradise 2030" project fits into this framework, aiming to promote the repopulation capacity of Minor Centres through housing policies and the design of common spaces. The Roccafanara district, consisting of five blocks in a state of semi-abandonment and urban and architectural degradation, was selected as the study area for the experiment, involving six international universities in an architecture training program supported by the UNESCO National Commission-Korea Education for Sustainable Development (ESD).