DISTRITQ by Arqos

Presented by ARQOS

_project: DISTRITQ
_development: ARQOS
_location: São Paulo, Brazil

The concept of the 15-minute city has gained significant traction in recent years as urban areas worldwide strive to create more sustainable, livable, and accessible environments. The idea, first popularized by urbanist Carlos Moreno, centers around ensuring that all essential services - such as education, healthcare, work, leisure, and shopping - are within a 15-minute walking or cycling radius from residents' homes. This model seeks to reduce reliance on cars, promote active mobility, foster a sense of community, and improve overall quality of life.

In the case of the project DISTRITQ, this vision of a 15-minute city has been thoughtfully adapted to the specific realities of the local environment. According to Pedro Lira, architect, urbanist, and founding partner of Natureza Urbana, DISTRITQ is tailored to a high-income population with the option to use personal vehicles, a context quite different from many other 15-minute city initiatives, which often target dense urban centers. "We needed to create attractive solutions for these people to use the alternatives we’re proposing," Pedro explains. The challenge was to make walking and cycling more appealing while integrating other modes of transportation. "We incentivize active mobility through walking and cycling, but we understand the importance of electric bikes or an internal electric public transport system to ensure connectivity with comfort."

One of the major urban planning adaptations was the layout of DISTRITQ, which consists of several land plots at different elevations and a hot climate. To address these challenges, Pedro notes, "The connections need to be attractive, with pedestrian-friendly pathways that are safe, shaded, and equipped with amenities." The integration of technology and sustainability is key, as the district incorporates public spaces of varying scales, some of which offer technological solutions and shaded rest areas to enhance the experience of active mobility.

Sustainability also plays a vital role in DISTRITQ's design, not just in transportation but in the district's interaction with its natural surroundings. Pedro emphasizes that DISTRITQ is adjacent to a nature reserve, which has become a core element of the project. "We proposed that the reserve be structured so that residents can engage with it, creating an environmental education center in collaboration with the local government," Pedro says. Moreover, the project encourages the use of sustainable construction practices, from recycling systems to considering circular economy principles. "We aim to build a community that is environmentally conscious and uses resources more effectively," Pedro concludes.

DISTRITQ represents a forward-thinking adaptation of the 15-minute city concept, blending active mobility, sustainable practices, and the integration of natural landscapes. The project offers a model for creating urban environments that are not only convenient but also environmentally responsible and engaging. As cities around the world explore ways to become more livable and connected, DISTRITQ sets a precedent for thoughtful urban development that harmonizes modern living with sustainability and community building.

_article written by Daniela Moreira da Silva
_film by Architecture Hunter
_cover and image scroll courtesy of PVID