THE HOUSING UNITS OF THE POSITIVE CLIMATE NEIGHBORHOOD PEDRA BRANCA SC/BR

In response to the global climate crisis, urgent measures are required to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in alignment with the goals of the Paris Agreement. As energy consumption accounts for 36% of total emissions, and buildings contribute significantly to both direct and indirect emissions, it is crucial to enhance the energy efficiency and self-sufficiency of buildings. This article conducts a case study to evaluate the formal structure, spatial layout, and sustainable strategies employed in residential units within the Pedra Branca neighborhood (Santa Catarina, Brazil), using the methodology developed by Brandão and Schneider. The findings indicate that the housing units predominantly consist of three bedrooms, along with two to four bathrooms. The analysis revealed partial integration between the kitchen and service areas, with full integration being less common. Corridor layouts were found to make the greatest contribution to sustainability and internal space quality. Although some configurations did not directly support cross-ventilation, there was a clear focus on environmental comfort and the use of passive design strategies. This study highlights the potential of such configurations to improve energy performance and contribute to the development of climate-positive neighborhoods.