Formas de Madeira e pré-fabricação: idealismo e pragmatismo em duas casas de Paulo Mendes da Rocha

Rationalized construction linked to the standardization of structure and prefabrication appeared in Brazilian architecture in the sixties. On the other hand, the low cost of wooden molds and labour did not require the workmen changed their traditional methods of construction. Two phenomenon in the international scene occurred at the same time. First of all, the need for flexibility in new work environments and locations. These factors demanded the removal of the structural columns to the periphery of office buildings, resulting in an increase in the amount of open spaces within the constructions. In São Paulo a new tendency appeared which was the change from flat horizontal systems of support for ceilings and floors to a system of a minimal support in favor of structural grids. Indeed the grids both uni and bi-directional play an important role in Le Corbusier´s Dom2 ino system of transformation, improved by architects from Rio de Janeiro as of 1936. In its re-location to housing, the concept of flexibility suggested spatial ambiguities. This article aims to discuss two opposites points of view involved in this issue: the idealization of industrialization versus the pragmatic character of prefabrication. From this perspective, the article establishes a comparison between the twin houses of Butantã (1964-66) and Gerassi`s house a (1989-91). In the first, built with pine board molds, the rationalization was more theoretical; however, in practice there was plenty of wood in Brazil in the 60s. In Gerassi`s case, the pre-fabrication controls the material qualities and provides an effective rationality, due to the changing economic context. The article also seeks to identify the use of a structural grid system and a concentration of support mechanisms, specifically related to the mechanization of office buildings and re-location in the context of home space.