URBAN SPATIAL INNOVATIONS

REFLECTIONS

Abstract

This paper aims at discussing some relations between innovations and urban spatial forms. Innovations – which is a relative concept – not always produce new forms, but they can give new functions to old forms. However, they also create those forms. The emergence of selective sectors, endowed with amenities and appropriated by high middle class and the elites is a relatively old innovation in its origin, although new in many Brazilian cities. Exclusive condominiums, malls and motorways are the tripod of such spaces.