[S]

Abstract

Certain urban structures, such as row houses and condominium-building complexes, have open spaces whose use is limited to the residents of these structures, since access is restricted by walls and gates, which exacerbate social and spatial exclusion and change the urban landscape. The aim of this work is to present the open spaces found in complexes comprising row houses and condominium buildings in the city of São Paulo, describing them and raising questions regarding their use by the residents and the role they play in the city. Another aspect analyzed here are the consequences of these private (or semiprivate) patios, courts, squares and gardens on the open and unrestricted public areas, particularly those located next to these complexes. It is argued that the existence of these private spaces sometimes contributes toward the abandonment of public squares, streets and sidewalks, which case to be recreation and leisure areas.