the image of poverty and social imbalance in the country, even though it is impossible to deny that that fight for survival continues to provide ingenious solutions (Figure 13, see page 39) with force and creativity, starting with very sparce resources. Popular Modernity. The advent of modern architecture in Brazil, at the end of 1930, represented a cultural phenomenon that involved all strata of the population. In the same way, the less fortunate social strata that perhaps worked on the constructions, although they did not live in those buildings and spaces, sensed that a new aesthetic and constructive technology was being born and that that image was the symbol of the modernization of the country and its society. With the impetus to participate in those transformations at whatever cost, popular constructions began to emerge starting in 1960, popular constructions that made reference, in an ingenuous way, to Brazilian modernist icons, and even began to frequent Kitsch trends. This was happening throughout the country; among other examples, there were poor, meager houses, or a small shop with a brickwork support reminiscent of the columns of Palácio da Alvorada in Brasilia, or simple churches on the outskirts of cities that searched for formal references in arched roofs, and which was exemplified in the bell tower of the Church of St. Francis, built in the Pampulha complex in Belo Horizonte. In conclusion, taking all things into consideration, it would not be absurd to assert that the primary value of the modern architecture born in the 20th century in Brazil –and especially in the work of Oscar Niemeyer, who created symbols that were easily recognizable to ordinary people– lay in the presentation of a manner of social evolution and the proposal of a new national aesthetic, susceptible to being appropriated by diverse strata of the population. It would truly be a new chapter in the Brazilian modernist saga if popular modernism, without denying the achievements of new cultures and technologies, or the wisdom inherent in diverse traditions and traditional constructive methods, were to propose a new national architectural model, utopian and pragmatic at the same time. Bibliography. Weimer, Günter. Arquitetura Popular Brasileira. São Paulo, Livraria Martins Fontes Editora, 2005.
Popular Architecture in the Anglophone Caribbean Wanda Mills-Bocachica, Architect and city planner from the U.S. Virgin Islands West Indian popular architecture, which prevails in the Anglophone Caribbean, is diverse, and uniquely linked to the specificities of place, the hands of the individual craftsman and mass production. While contributions by numerous cultures are apparent in West Indian building designs and methods, British and United States’ architectural influences are still quite evident. British aesthetic influences can be traced to the following periods: the Jacobean (1603-25); the Georgian (1714-1830); and the Victorian (1837-1901). The Jacobean period is defined by its relatively plain exteriors, its symmetry, tall and heavy proportions, the use of the gable roof, “mortise and tenon” construction methods, and large windows. The Georgian period is characterized by its use of classic columns and pediments on a smaller scale; a contrast between plain exteriors and lavish interiors; steeply sloped roofs; and sash windows. The Victorian era introduced the popular use of ornamental fretwork, or the addition of “gingerbread” trim, along the roof gables, verandahs and porches of the traditionally plain and stoic British exteriors. In addition to the Amerindian and European influences, African construction and spatial preferences are also evident in the construction of West Indian chattel huts and shelters. The primary dwelling was adapted over time to facilitate ventilation, shade and shelter, protection from rodents and increased divisions for privacy. Besides the enclosed living space and sleeping quarters, outdoor living areas were defined by: (1) the cooking area; (2) the washing area; (3) a space for domestic waste and (4) a cultivation area, and (5) an area for domestic animals. Multi-story residential units continue to house extended family members within family compounds. During the 20th century, Great Britain was challenged by its military, economic and infrastructural woes. Its progeny, the United States, gained eminence as a world leader in the modern industrial revolution and had significant influence in the Caribbean region. The availability of innovative and “cheap” building materials defined the aesthetics of 20th century West Indian popular architecture. These innovations diminished the role of the artisan
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