The statistics are shocking: From the three billion people that live in cities, over one billion are below the poverty line in makeshift homes and 100 million are homeless. Chilean architect Alejandro Aravena is doing what he can to turn this situation around.
Collectively called “Half of a Good House” and already developed as Quinta Monroy, Lo Barnechea and Villa Verde in Chile and Monterrey, Mexico City, these were partially built with government funds while residents work on the rest when they can, allowing them to achieve middle class standards. Ideal for redevelopment after natural calamities, fight homelessness and the current migration situation, the schemes are to be modified to comply with local regulations, building codes and material availability.
