The architecture of the participation of Giancarlo de Carlo revisited

Abstract

In criticism of the modern project for architecture, Giancarlo de Carlo elaborated a protest text in which he defended the inclusion of users in architectural operations. Contrasting what would be the operation of traditional architecture - detection of a problem, proposition of a solution and later evaluation - De Carlo proposes the architecture of participation, where a new scheme of operation, nonlinear, would reposition the role of the architect as a formulator of hypotheses. This new role of the architect implies a clear dialogic articulation of ideas and practices forged with all involved in the architectural operation resulting in, not a finished final object, but a permanent process of exchanges that should bring the constructed space closer to the yearnings and needs of future users. This essay promotes a re-encounter with De Carlo's text and, based on key ideas extracted from it, confronts him with other authors who also discuss issues about participation and distribution of power in architectural and urban planning operations. Such reflection reinforces the timeliness of De Carlo's writings and the need to keep alive the debate about participation and collaboration - essential ideas for the participatory democracy project that many theorists, practitioners, and activists hang in the contemporary city.