Arquitectura-Pregrado
Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dspace-test.ucuenca.edu.ec/handle/123456789/48
Browse
Recent Submissions
Item Caracterización e identificación de tipologías de viviendas en Guapán como base para la aplicación de un modelo predictivo(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-09-02) Salazar Peralta, Joan Jesús; Sanango Chimborazo, Fernando Daniel; Siguencia Ávila, Maria EugeniaThe present Curricular Integration Project aims to characterize and classify the main housing typologies existing in the Guapán parish, Azogues canton, Cañar province, with the purpose of generating a systematized architectural database to serve as input for the future adaptation of the predictive model developed within the international project Community-Centered Modeling of Housing Related Health Disparities (ComDisp). The research was conducted using a descriptive and classificatory approach, based on a literature review, territorial delimitation, direct observation, photographic documentation, georeferencing, and the application of architectural characterization forms. A total of 69 dwellings located within the defined study area were analyzed, considering variables related to site implantation, spatial configuration, morphology, volumetry, materiality, and construction systems. The systematization of the information made it possible to identify recurring architectural patterns and establish four housing typologies: basic traditional, consolidated contemporary, transitional traditional, and contemporary progressive growth. The results reveal a diverse housing stock in which traditional features, contemporary construction solutions, and progressive growth processes coexist. As a result, graphic materials, typological sheets, comparative tables, and a technical synthesis were developed, constituting the architectural baseline for future phases of interdisciplinary analysis related to the ComDisp project, without carrying out predictive modeling processes or environmental exposure assessment.Item Estudio del comportamiento mecánico de paneles compuestos de Totora y láminas de madera contrachapada para aplicaciones interiores(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-09-02) Abril Duran, Thomas Elian; Quizhpi Picón, Camila Fernanda; Sánchez Castillo, José HernánThis research analyzes the physical-mechanical behavior of composite panels made from totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) mats and plywood sheets for interior cladding. Totora is a renewable, lightweight plant fiber with low environmental impact, whose use in construction has been limited by the lack of technical information on its mechanical performance. Prototypes 3, 5, and 7 cm thick were produced, mechanically assembled under different compaction levels (5 to 7 kg/cm²) and tested in compression and bending according to the UNE-EN 408 standard. Contrary to what the increase in inertia would suggest, strength decreased as thickness increased: the 3 cm panels performed best, with mean strengths of 6.58 MPa in bending and 1.79 MPa in compression, compared with lower values for the 5 and 7 cm panels. Higher compaction improved compressive strength and dimensional stability. With densities of 395 to 568 kg/m³, the prototypes showed a ductile failure mode and a favorable strength-to-weight ratio relative to reference biogenic-core sandwich systems. In addition, an empirical anchoring method for lightweight timber framing (wood framing) was validated using concealed through-bolts. The findings show that the system constitutes a viable alternative for non-structural applications in interior cladding and lightweight partitions, providing technical criteria for incorporating local biogenic materials into sustainable architecture.Item Reimaginando “Los Capulíes”: Estrategias de diseño orientadas hacia entornos amigables con las infancias(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-09-01) Ramos Patiño, Michelle Estefania; Orellana Vintimilla, Daniel AugustoChildren’s quality of life in social housing complexes represents a critical global challenge that affects the comprehensive development of millions of boys and girls in urban contexts. Internationally, increasing urbanization and the need for affordable housing demand solutions that prioritize child-friendly environments. In the Latin American context, and specifically in Cuenca, Ecuador, this problem is exacerbated by the lack of quality public spaces and limited urban connectivity in social housing projects. Consequently, the main objective of this research is to develop sustainable urban design strategies at the neighborhood scale focused on childhood. This will be achieved through a neighborhood-level proposal applied to the "Los Capulíes" project in Cuenca. The methodology used combines quantitative and qualitative analysis to build a system of specific indicators that will allow for a comparative evaluation of the current and proposed state of the study area. This methodology seeks to transform sustainability concepts into measurable design strategies and tools through indicators.Item Airbnb y su relación con edificios patrimoniales dentro del centro histórico de Cuenca, Ecuador(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-09-01) Tacuri Uzhca, Erick Mateo; García Vélez, Gabriela ElizabethThis project builds upon research initiated by the World Heritage City (CPM) and PreiTour research groups, which identified areas with high concentrations of Airbnb listings within Cuenca’s historic center. Building on this foundation, the current study aims to: 1) explore accommodation patterns—whether or not linked to the area's heritage buildings; 2) identify the factors driving Airbnb usage; and 3) reveal the perceived impacts on heritage buildings and their surroundings. A mixed-methods approach is employed: it begins with a literature review to understand the phenomenon globally before focusing on the local context, where on-site fieldwork verifies the presence of Airbnb listings within the area of highest concentration in Cuenca’s historic center. Additionally, interviews and surveys are conducted with property owners and municipal government staff to understand their perceptions and motivations regarding Airbnb. The findings shed light on the relationship—whether positive or negative—between these uses and heritage buildings, with a particular focus on the residential aspect of the area.Item Sistemas de representación de la construcción: Casonas esquineras del Centro Histórico de Cuenca entre el siglo XIX y XX(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-28) García Peralta, Diego Josué; Sinchi Toral, Iván PaúlThis research analyzes the historic buildings located along a section of Simón Bolívar Street in the Historic Center of Cuenca through the notion of representation of construction developed by Helio Piñón, understood as architecture’s capacity to visually reorganize the constructive fact through an autonomous formal system. Using a qualitative methodology structured in three stages—theoretical foundation, reasoned catalog, and urban analysis— an in situ survey of the buildings along the selected section was conducted. Initially, twelve case studies were identified, followed by the analysis of fifty-eight buildings classified according to their formal characteristics and degree of ornamentation. The study identified two classification criteria: the formal logic of the compact volume, linked to French Neoclassicism and characterized by trabeated compositions, pilasters, and other ornamental elements; and the formal logic of the vertical landmark, associated with both Neoclassicism and Romanticism, defined by the use of arches, engaged columns, greater ornamental autonomy, and a composition that emphasizes verticality. Cartographic representation of the buildings revealed a concentration of both classification criteria and of the highest levels of ornamentation in the sector between Calderón Park and San Sebastián, while their frequency decreases toward San Blas. Finally, the research relates these findings to the historical processes of social differentiation, economic prosperity, French cultural influence, and urban modernization experienced by Cuenca between the late nineteenth century and the mid- twentieth century. The study demonstrates that formal analysis constitutes a valid tool for understanding heritage architecture beyond traditional stylistic classifications.Item Prototipo de vivienda rural autosuficiente y bioclimáticamente adaptada. Caso: Valle de Tarqui, Cuenca–Azuay(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo, 2026-08-25) Cardenas Loja, Angie Gabriela; Espinoza Guaman, Paola Estefanía; Saltos Carvallo, Héctor JavierThe project develops the bioclimatic and self-sufficient design of a rural housing unit in the Tarqui Valley, Victoria del Portete parish, Cuenca, as a technical response to the lack of residential models adapted to the rigor of the high-mountain climate and the complex topography of the territory. The proposal consists of a comprehensive architectural prototype that links a habitable module with a contemporary envelope; this configuration generates protected cores that house the essential areas of the program. Through the implementation of modular and industrialized solutions, these cores manage to establish stable internal microclimates that minimize thermal losses and significantly reduce the dependence on conventional mechanical climate control systems. The research is structured in three fundamental stages: first, the theoretical foundations are established through the analysis of definitions and the study of reference cases on rural typologies at the national and international levels. Second, the local physical-climatic context is evaluated to determine passive strategies and water and energy self-sufficiency systems. Finally, the technical development of the prototype is finalized through graphic representations and precise construction details, integrating criteria for solar orientation, natural ventilation, and the use of renewable resources through the convergence of passive and active architectural solutions. The main objective is to validate the technical, environmental, and construction viability of a replicable model that optimizes the use of local resources, mitigates the need for external infrastructures, and strengthens the resilience of the rural habitat in the high-altitude areas of the Azuay province, Ecuador.Item Equidad territorial y distribución del servicio eléctrico residencial: Análisis espacial de su relación con los procesos de urbanización en la ciudad de Cuenca y sus zonas de expansión(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-27) Barrera Macancela, Michelle Lisseth; Mullo Sinaluisa, Pedro Vicente; Quesada Molina, Juan FelipeThe city of Cuenca presents urbanization processes marked by peripheral expansion, low density, and transformation of consolidated areas, conditions that influence the territorial distribution of basic urban services. This research evaluates residential electricity service and its relationship with socio-spatial variables in the city of Cuenca and its expansion areas, as a basis for formulating urban sustainability guidelines. The methodology was developed at the scale of Territorial Intervention Polygons (PIT), integrating secondary information from CENTROSUR, INEC, and official municipal cartography. Five indicators were analyzed: residential electricity consumption per capita, duration and number of interruptions, access to basic services, and land consumption in relation to population growth. GIS, AHP multicriteria weighting, Getis-Ord Gi* analysis, and weighted overlay were applied. The results show that residential electricity service does not present a generalized critical condition; however, territorial differences exist between the consolidated urban core and peripheral or rural expansion sectors. Baños, San Joaquín, Chiquintad, Sinincay, and edges of Nulti present longer interruption durations, while Nulti, Sinincay, and Turi show less efficient urban expansion. The study concludes that territorial equity in residential electricity service depends on coverage, service continuity, urban form, density, territorial consolidation, and socio-spatial conditions. Finally, guidelines are proposed for energy efficiency, demand management, service continuity, and energy resilience.Item Identificación de zonas gentrificadas en el Centro Histórico de Lima en base a los datos del periodo intercensal 2007 - 2017(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-28) Nieves Puchi, Alexis Xavier; Urgiles Mora, Gilda Dayanna; Pacurucu Cáceres, Natalia ElizabethThis research identifies areas undergoing gentrification within the Historic Centre of Lima (HCL), Peru, located within the area designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, through the analysis of socio-spatial transformations during the 2007–2017 intercensal period. The study is based on the premise that urban revitalization and heritage conservation policies, by prioritizing tourism and economic profitability, have contributed to the displacement of traditional residents toward peripheral areas and to the deterioration of the historic social fabric. The research adopts the methodology proposed by Orellana (2024), adapting its predictive model of statistical indicators to the context of the Historic Centre of Lima using data from the National Censuses conducted by the National Institute of Statistics and Informatics (INEI), processed through Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Due to limitations in the availability of census information, the original model of 18 variables was adjusted to a total of 9 indicators, evaluating three key dimensions—social, demographic, and economic—at the urban block level. The results, validated through fieldwork (observation sheets and perception surveys), analysis of historical imagery from Google Earth Pro, and documentary review, enabled the spatial identification of urban blocks experiencing the greatest pressure of socio-spatial transformation and vulnerability. Finally, the study proposes urban, social, and heritage management strategies and recommendations aimed at counteracting the negative effects of gentrification, mitigating residential displacement, and preserving the identity of the area.Item Identificación de la gentrificación urbana en base de un modelo predictivo en el Centro Histórico de la ciudad de Cartagena de Indias(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-20) Orellana Gonzalez, John Wismar; Remache Nugra, Luis Fernando; Orellana Alvear, Boris AdriánThis study analyzes the socio-spatial transformations in the Historic Center of Cartagena de Indias (Centro, San Diego, and Getsemaní). It addresses gentrification as a structural process of real estate reclamation and touristification that displaces vulnerable indigenous populations and commodifies heritage. To go beyond traditional descriptive analyses, the study implements a quantitative, spatial, and predictive model based on a longitudinal analysis of microdata from the 2005 and 2018 censuses. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS), fifteen multidimensional variables (social, demographic, and economic) were processed. The algorithm identified areas with atypical intercensal variations, detecting a collapse in the original population density alongside exponential increases in higher education and connectivity. The results reveal selective spatial exclusion: San Diego and Centro show established residential depopulation, while Getsemaní acts as the active frontier of territorial dispossession, catalyzed by regulatory neglect and the aesthetic prioritization of heritage. Finally, the research provides preventive guidelines based on the microspatial risk of each city block, proposing cadastral safeguards, tourist saturation quotas, and the capture of capital gains to finance a compensatory fund that defends the Right to the City.Item Rehabilitación de edificación VAR-B para uso de vivienda en el Centro Histórico de Cuenca, Ecuador(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-27) Coronel Alvarado, José David; Solis Moscoso, Anabella Inae; Guerra Galán, Jaime AugustoThe historic center of Cuenca constitutes one of the most representative spaces of the city, not only for its heritage and architectural value, but also for the diverse social interactions it hosts. However, in recent years it has undergone a process that has reduced its residential function, placing greater emphasis on the commercial sector. Factors such as the displacement of the population toward the periphery have caused a shift in the area’s primary land use, leaving it with fewer permanent residents. In response to this problem, the present research proposes the architectural rehabilitation of a building classified as VAR-B, under a multifamily/mixed-use housing modality. The building located at Benigno Malo 6-72, in the vicinity of Plaza San Francisco in the city’s historic center, is used as the case study. This proposal is aimed at defining and applying architectural design guidelines that are coherently integrated into the surrounding context and respectful of the building’s architectural value. Through a qualitative and quantitative analysis of the case study, an intervention proposal is developed in response to these guidelines. Finally, it is expected to obtain a proposal that demonstrates the established guidelines and promotes the conservation of the building’s heritage values along with the recovery of its residential use.Item Anteproyecto de un conjunto residencial para el cantón Balsas aplicando estrategias que generen confort interior y reduzcan el consumo energético(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-26) Flores Pogo, Bilixon Agusto; Murillo Arias, Freddy Adrián; Sánchez Castillo, José HernánSustainable residential architecture is essential to face current and future climatic and energy challenges. In Balsas canton, located at the province of El Oro, both the climatic conditions and the increasing demand for housing, lead to the search for innovative architectural solutions. Current constructions have overheating problems that the population tries to mitigate through mechanical systems that end up causing high energy consumption. This thesis project proposes the preliminary design of a residential complex that incorporates various architectural strategies aimed at improving comfort and reducing energy consumption. The proposal is developed from the application of fundamental principles of sustainable design, cases study, and climate analysis of the site. The preliminary design seeks to offer architectural solutions that generate comfort, being economically accessible, minimize environmental impact and serve as a model to be replicated. This thesis project contributes to the sustainable development of architecture in Ecuador, responding to the needs of Balsas and promoting an architecture responsible to the environment and designed for user comfort.Item Herramientas para el diseño de espacios con naturaleza en proyectos residenciales. Caso de estudio Centro Histórico de Cuenca - Ecuador.(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-26) Macas Malla, Walter Eugenio; Pacheco Zeas, Paula Elizabeth; García Vélez, Gabriela ElizabethCurrently, we observe a progressive reduction of green areas in residential projects, with a clear prioritization of the built environment, relegating natural spaces that have historically been an integral part of housing and urban design, despite evidence from various studies highlighting their importance and proposing ways to incorporate them. This trend compromises the comfort and well-being of residents. In this context, the present research project aims to establish guidelines for the reintegration of natural elements into existing courtyard houses in the Historic Center of Cuenca. To achieve this objective, relevant information was analyzed to understand the relationship between nature and human beings within the historical context of housing, and the situation of residences in the Historic Center of Cuenca, their evolution, and their significance were specifically studied. Subsequently, the analysis of the housing incorporates contributions from recent research developed by the "RECETAS" project, coordinated locally by the World Heritage City Research Group. This includes the characterization of natural species, including native plants, which will be complemented by architectural characteristics of courtyard houses. The integrated nature-architecture analysis will establish spatial parameters that facilitate the reintegration of nature, providing a practical tool to guide the appropriate implementation of vegetation in interior courtyards, especially for residential projects within the Historic Center of Cuenca, declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO in 1999.Item Panel modular de totora y malla electrosoldada: diseño y evaluación para su aplicación en arquitectura(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-20) Andrade León, Karen Mabel; Rivera Cordero, Daniela Francisca; Saltos Carvallo, Héctor JavierThis study examines the development and technical feasibility of modular panels made of compressed totora (Schoenoplectus californicus) confined within electro-welded mesh. The research adopts a quantitative and qualitative approach; the quantitative aspect allowed for the measurement of the panels’ mechanical performance under various configurations of thickness and compaction pressure, while the qualitative aspect analyzes the criteria for assembly, stability, and adaptability of the construction system. The research is structured into several interconnected phases: Phase I consists of the conceptual and technical design of the panels; Phase II encompasses the development of experimental prototypes, preliminary physical characterization as control variables, and the validation of their performance through mechanical tests for bending, compression, and axial screw pull-out resistance; finally, Phase III involves the empirical analysis of the construction systems, validating assembly criteria and operational manageability. The results demonstrate the panels’ potential for non-structural applications; therefore, their performance paves the way for their integration into lightweight industrialized building systems and tension systems, thereby improving the stability, strength, and modularity of the overall structure.Item Incidencia de la arquitectura contemporánea en el Centro Histórico de Cuenca: Unidad de Paisaje #1(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-26) Agila Paushi, Allison Anahi; Gutiérrez Illescas, Gabriela Anahí; Guerra Galán, Jaime AugustoThe introduction of contemporary architecture is an inevitable part of evolution, creating tensions between heritage preservation and architectural innovation. The Historic Center of Cuenca, recognized for its heritage value, has undergone transformations in its urban landscape due to the modification and introduction of contemporary buildings. Considering this challenge, this research focused on evaluating the level of integration of six contemporary interventions in landscape unit #1 of the Historic Center of Cuenca, based on an analysis of the facades and their relationship with the immediate urban context. Using a mixed methodology, an evaluation tool based on risk indicators was applied in contrast to current regulations to obtain values that determine whether there is adequate integration with the surroundings, thereby enabling an understanding of the interventions’ impact on the context. The results showed that the analyzed interventions comply with the parameters established in the regulations, although they present moderate levels of risk associated with architectural and historical values. This led to the conclusion that the regulations constitute an essential tool for the integration of contemporary architecture, although compliance with them does not guarantee adequate integration with the historic urban landscape.Item Guía de criterios de diseño para tipologías de vivienda unifamiliar desarrolladas en los talleres de la Facultad de Arquitectura y Urbanismo de la Universidad de Cuenca(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-24) León Ramírez, Paula Rominna; Reyes Amoroso, Rebeca Anahíd; Serrano Tapia, Alex DanielThe project aims to develop an academic support guide focused on establishing fundamental design criteria in the formal, spatial, and functional domains for the design of single-family housing, with the purpose of strengthening and complementing the education of Architecture students. The research is conducted under a documentary or theoretical approach, involving a bibliographic review and an analysis of theories, authors, and pedagogical approaches related to the teaching of architectural design and the basic design process, using summary sheets and comparative matrices as systematization tools. Finally, based on the information obtained, the guide will be structured by integrating the principles identified in the analysis across the different domains, articulating these criteria with the design process of single-family housing.Item Adaptación Experimental de un Sistema Modular en CLT para el Diseño Arquitectónico como Alternativa Habitacional Industrializada en Ecuador(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-24) Pinos Campoverde, Eddy Patricio; Serrano Tapia, Alex DanielThis Curricular Integration Work aims to develop an architectural housing project by applying the Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) modular system by MOOD, evaluating its adaptability as an industrialized alternative in Ecuador. Given the incipient technological exploration of local timber, the study opts for the design-based validation of an existing system, a strategy that provides academic rigor by adapting a proven technology. The methodology is substantially enriched through the analysis of different spatial configurations, beginning with the study of CLT components and the assembly of the regional benchmark. Subsequently, the logic of modulation and circulation is determined through technical redrawing and digital modeling of various typologies (linear, parallel, and articulated). This comparative graphic analysis provides the necessary design inputs to decode the rules of material optimization and substantiate the new proposal. The final outcome is the architectural design of the dwelling and the development of its architectural construction details (floors, walls, ceilings), adapting the system to local materials. Thus, the functional and aesthetic versatility of the model is demonstrated, contributing to technology transfer and the sustainable industrialization of Ecuadorian construction.Item Neuropaisajismo y patrimonio urbano: importancia de espacios urbanos en el Centro Histórico de Cuenca, desde la percepción de personas adultas mayores(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-25) Herrera Riera, Daniela Alexandra; García Vélez, Gabriela ElizabethThis research analyzes how the presence of nature in urban spaces influences the well-being and spatial experience of older adults. The study explores neurolandscape concepts using data from the RECETAS Project, where older adults constitute the central age group of this research. From the perspectives of architecture and urban planning, the research addresses the natural environment as a design component capable of influencing the configuration and use of spaces. Through a mixed-methods approach, the study seeks to understand how the natural component shapes the quantitative, qualitative, and participatory experience of older adults, translating these results into architectural, urban, and landscape design guidelines applicable to other established heritage urban spaces in the city of Cuenca, Ecuador.Item Propuesta de herramientas lúdicas para el proceso de enseñanza-aprendizaje de la arquitectura en tierra dirigido a infantes de 6-12 años, caso de estudio, Cuenca, Ecuador(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-21) Chuisaca Delgado, Priscila Alexandra; Sinchi Leon, Evelyn Dayanna; García Vélez, Gabriela ElizabethEarthen architecture, historically linked to ancestral knowledge and a harmonious relationship with the environment, has been losing ground due to the predominance of industrialized construction systems and perceptions that associate it with obsolete techniques. In heritage cities like Cuenca, this loss is reflected in the decline of community practices and the limited transmission of knowledge to new generations. Although heritage education is integrated into the school curriculum, its predominantly theoretical approach fails to generate meaningful learning or promote cultural appropriation in childhood. In response to this situation, this research proposes the design and implementation of playful tools based on experiential learning for children aged 6 to 12, to introduce them to the basic principles of earthen architecture and strengthen their appreciation of local heritage. The research employs a qualitative approach and action research methodology, integrating a conceptual analysis phase, the design of educational tools, and their application in practical workshops at the "Bell Academy" Educational Unit, an institution located next to the heritage building "Antigua Hacienda Serrano Lofruscio." It is hoped that the designed educational tools will foster motivation, structural understanding, and recognition of the cultural value of earthen architecture, promoting the appropriation of local heritage and contributing to the transmission of ancestral knowledge in a meaningful and accessible way for children.Item Propuesta de ecobarrio para el mejoramiento integral del barrio San Pedro de los Laureles en Cuenca(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-20) Carmona Berrezueta, Liza Michelle; Déleg Romero, Valeria Karina; León González, Pablo ArmandoUrban sprawl and the fragmentation of the urban fabric in peripheral areas have generated deficits in infrastructure, public space, accessibility, and social cohesion. In this context, this research develops an urban and architectural improvement preliminary project based on the ecobarrio approach for the San Pedro de los Laureles neighborhood, located in the Baños parish of the city of Cuenca. The study is based on a territorial, social, and urban characterization of the neighborhood, complemented by secondary data analysis and field surveys. Subsequently, a system of sustainability indicators at the neighborhood scale is applied to assess the environmental, urban-morphological, and social conditions of the area and to contrast them with the principles of the ecobarrio model. Based on this analysis, intervention strategies are formulated to improve the urban structure, strengthen community life, optimize land use, and promote a balanced relationship between the built environment and natural systems. The research demonstrates that the ecobarrio approach is a relevant tool for intervening in urban fringe neighborhoods, as it integrates environmental sustainability, functional proximity, and social cohesion, contributing to improved habitability and urban quality.Item Estudio del comportamiento físico-mecánico de rollos de totora comprimidos y sujetos con cuerda de forma helicoidal como elemento con potencial aplicación en la construcción sostenible(Universidad de Cuenca. Facultad de Arquitectura, 2026-08-13) Aguilera Guaraca, Karla Patricia; Criollo Enríquez, Wendy Camila; Hidalgo Cordero, Juan FernandoThe cat-tail (Schoenoplectus californicus) is a natural fiber that grows in wetlands across the Americas; it is characterized by a short regeneration cycle, making it a highly available renewable resource in Andean. The search for sustainable materials has become a priority due to the environmental impact of the construction industry. Although wood is a renewable resource, it cannot be considered sustainable because it is sourced from native forests. In this context, the need arises to determine whether Totora can serve as an alternative to conventional materials. This study is part of the broader project "Development of construction elements using Totora stalks joined by mechanical means (continuation)," which aims to analyze the physical-mechanical behavior of Totora bundles compacted via mechanical compression. This analysis allows for the evaluation of their potential application as a sustainable, renewable construction resource with a low environmental footprint, as well as the generation of technical data for comparison with similar studies.
