ARQUITECTURA HUMANITARIA Y FLEXIBLE PARA LA RESILIENCIA COMUNITARIA ANTE DESASTRES SOCIO-NATURALES: CASO CUENCA - ECUADOR

Abstract

This original research article addresses the growing problem of socio-natural disasters and their link to social vulnerability, taking as a reference the case of Cuenca, Ecuador, where unplanned urban growth increases risks for the population. The main objective of the research is to propose strategies and guidelines for the optimal design of multifunctional and flexible shelters that provide support and accommodation to victims of emergencies, while also contributing to the economic, social, and cultural development of the community in non-emergency contexts. The study analyzes the current improvised responses in the city, which result in temporary living conditions that affect the well-being of those affected. The methodology combines an exhaustive
literature review on disasters, shelters, and flexible and humanitarian architecture with the analysis of relevant local case studies (the Centro del Adulto Mayor Yanuncay and the Casa Comunal El Carmen de Guzho) and international cases. The results propose four key strategies: (1) comprehensive planning and design of permanent shelters, (2) multifunctionality and integration of local needs, (3) application of humanitarian architecture principles, and (4) flexible and adaptable design. The conclusions indicate that the theoretical application of these strategies in Cuenca, specifically in Bellavista and Sinincay, demonstrates how humanitarian and flexible architecture can mitigate the consequences of disasters and foster community resilience. Thus, productive and adaptable spaces are proposed that respond to both emergency situations and daily needs and can be replicated in other vulnerable contexts.

Keywords: Humanitarian architecture, flexible architecture, multifunctional shelter, socio - natural disaster, community resilience.