The Open Spaces Systems in Santa Cruz, Rio De Janeiro

This paper is presenting the results of conceptual reflections and methodological studies based on the theoretical scope that guided the Landscape Architecture course of the Graduate Course in Architecture, Faculty of Architecture and Urbanism. Whose focus of analysis and research guides the study of the urban landscape considering the relations between its public spaces, uses and morphological aspect. It presents the transformations of the landscape in the region of Santa Cruz. Santa Cruz, despite being one of the most populous neighborhoods, retains little housing density due to its large dimension. The region is a complex system of residual open spaces, large housing complexes, an important industrial zone, cluster areas under military control, and discontinuous land strips separated by heavy road boundaries. The neighborhood of Paciência was the focus of this investigation, in order to observe the context of the public spaces in the regional scope, Paciência and Santa Cruz are the neighborhood in the center of our debate. The methodology consists in the apprehension of a theoretical foundation to define concepts of Territory, Landscape and open spaces systems that are developed during the course. The use of research methods makes it possible to determine its urban evolution and landscape transformation. Also it's possible to understand urban expansion From these study it is possible to identify important elements for local history and identity, as well as to better understand the dynamics that govern the occupation of the public spaces and how the remaining open spaces are being used by the local population.