Propuesta de conservación integral de una vivienda patrimonial subutilizada y de un espacio adyacente: Caso Casa Ávila Tapia, Cuenca-Ecuador

Abstract

The abandonment and underutilization of spaces and buildings is an increasingly common process in cities worldwide, especially within historic centers. As a result of several factors, gentrification stands out in particular, where previously affordable spaces for most of the population become destined for inhabitants with higher economic assets. In Cuenca, Ecuador, this phenomenon has been more marked in the last three decades due to the massive migration of the population to other cities and abroad due to the economic crisis. This work aims to highlight one of the neighborhoods of the Historical Center of Cuenca where fewer interventions have been carried out in its heritage buildings, the María Auxiliadora neighborhood, since most of these are homes or minor businesses of families of the middle class. Under a comprehensive conservation project of a VAR B category heritage building and a lot adjacent to this building, it seeks to establish multipurpose spaces that enhance the interaction of community members, serving as a meeting and commerce space. Thus, the project will allow both residents and visitors to learn about the history of the neighborhood, returning to the city the traditions that make the María Auxiliadora neighborhood a particular place, such as the weaving of toquilla straw and local community cinema.