Book launch with a following conversation.

At a time when architectural and urban studies are moving towards seeking to accept and understand informal neighbourhoods rather than ignoring or eradicating them, the need for experiments on the ground is becoming increasingly urgent. In recent years, a growing number of architects and spatial practitioners have begun to act on their commitment to the idea that these settlements are here to stay and require selective intervention. Critical Neighbourhoods – The Architecture of Contested Communities analyses recent studies and practical actions in three different continents (Africa, America and Asia).

The volume is edited by Paulo Moreira, with contributions by Elisa Silva, Julia King, Matthew Barac and Ines Weizman, and a preface by AbdouMaliq Simone.

After presenting the book, Paulo Moreira will be joined by filmmaker Elisabeth Brun for a brief conversation.

About Paulo Moreira:

Paulo Moreira is a Porto-based architect and researcher. He gratuated from the Faculty of Architecture, University of Porto (Portugal), having studied also at the Accademia di architettura (Mendrisio, Switzerland). He received his doctorate from London Metropolitan University. Moreira authored chapters in academic journals and edited independent publications on informal neighborhoods. He participated in La Biennale di Venezia (2014, 2016, 2021), Lisbon Architecture Triennale (2007, 2013), Oslo Architecture Triennale (2016, 2019). He was awarded several grants and prizes, including: Prize for Social Entrepreneurship (London Met, 2009) and Noel Hill Travel Award (American Institute of Architects - UK Chapter, 2009). He was a finalist in the RIBA President’s Award for Research 2019, Cities & Community category. He is the editor of Critical Neighbourhoods – The Architecture of Contested Communities (Park Books, 2022).