URBAN RENEWAL
Interlagos 2030 – Sustainable Urban Transformation Initiative
Urban Renewal Interlagos 2030 is an integrated architectural, urban, and social revitalization initiative focused on the neighborhoods surrounding the Interlagos Formula One racetrack in São Paulo, Brazil. While the racetrack undergoes continuous modernization in line with international motorsport standards, adjacent communities face persistent structural and socioeconomic challenges.
The initiative places strong emphasis on environmental restoration through urban greening, tree planting, and sustainable landscape strategies designed to improve microclimate conditions, air quality, and overall quality of life.
The program seeks to bridge this contrast by combining a national architecture and urban design competition, vocational certification in construction trades, and sustainable urban intervention. Through education, professional training, and community participation, the initiative promotes inclusive development and long-term economic opportunity.
Urban transformation through education, sustainability, and community engagement.
Strategic Objectives
- Promote architectural and urban requalification in underserved areas.
- Launch a national competition in architecture and urbanism to generate innovative, community-centered design solutions.
- Provide certified vocational training in construction-related professions.
- Strengthen community participation in urban transformation processes.
- Foster sustainable economic development through public-private collaboration.
- Expand urban greening and sustainable landscaping to improve environmental resilience and neighborhood livability.
Target Audience
The program directly benefits:
- Residents of neighborhoods surrounding the Interlagos region
- Young students and professionals in architecture, civil engineering, urbanism, and sustainable design
- Individuals seeking vocational qualification in construction trades such as masonry, painting, and building maintenance
The initiative also engages public authorities, private sector partners, and academic institutions.
Program Structure
Urban Renewal Interlagos 2030 operates through a multi-layered framework:
1. National Architecture & Urban Design Competition
A call for proposals invites students and professionals in architecture, engineering, and urban planning to develop innovative projects aimed at improving façades, public spaces, accessibility, urban greenery, and environmental sustainability. Special consideration is given to proposals that incorporate native tree species, shaded pedestrian areas, permeable surfaces, and climate-responsive design solutions.
2. Vocational Certification Program
Local residents are offered structured professional training in construction-related fields. Participants receive technical instruction and formal certification, enabling them to enter or advance in the labor market.
3. Community-Based Implementation
Selected design proposals are implemented with the active participation of trained local workers, ensuring income generation, skill development, and direct community ownership of the transformation process. Environmental improvement initiatives, including coordinated tree planting and streetscape enhancement, are implemented with community participation to ensure long-term care and local stewardship.
4. Public-Private Partnership Model
The initiative seeks collaboration with municipal authorities and private sector partners, enabling financial sustainability, regulatory support, and scalable impact through a structured public-private partnership framework.
Expected Outcomes & Impact
The program is designed to generate measurable urban and socioeconomic outcomes, including:
- Visible improvement in architectural quality and public space functionality
- Increased professional certification and employability among local residents
- Strengthened local economy through job creation
- Significant expansion of urban tree coverage and green infrastructure, contributing to improved air quality, reduced heat exposure, and healthier living conditions
- Improved social cohesion and community pride
- Strengthened environmental awareness and community engagement in sustainable urban practices
Beyond its initial geographic focus, the model is designed for replication in other Brazilian municipalities and in international contexts, including emerging urban environments in Africa.
Partnerships
Urban Renewal Interlagos 2030 seeks strategic collaboration with:
- Municipal authorities and public agencies
- Private sector sponsors and construction industry partners
- Academic institutions in architecture and urban planning
- Community-based organizations
The program operates under a transparent governance structure aligned with nonprofit regulatory standards and public accountability principles.
Geographic Scope
Initially implemented in the Interlagos region of São Paulo, the program is structured as a scalable urban regeneration model adaptable to other cities in Brazil and internationally. Its framework could be thoughtfully adapted to diverse metropolitan environments — from Latin America to rapidly growing African cities such as Nairobi or Maputo — where integrated urban design, environmental restoration, and workforce development are essential to inclusive growth. The model aligns with international best practices in sustainable urban development and climate-adaptive infrastructure.
Get Involved
Initially implemented in the Interlagos region of São Paulo, the program is structured as a scalable urban regeneration model adaptable to other cities in Brazil and internationally.
Aerial view of the Interlagos racetrack
Stylized image showing an F1 driver handing a bucket of paint to a local resident