Población Quebrada Márquez, Social housing complex in Valparaíso, Chile.
Población Quebrada Márquez is a residential complex in Valparaíso containing five concrete blocks that rise four to six stories, housing 214 apartments in total. The units are arranged in a stepped pattern up the hillside, with each apartment typically featuring three bedrooms, a living room, kitchen, and bathroom, while lower-floor units include small yards and upper levels have connecting balconies.
The complex was built between 1946 and 1949 by engineer Pedro Goldsack during Gabriel González Videla's presidency to address housing shortages for working families. This project represented a significant moment in Chile's public housing efforts, when the state directly invested in creating homes for lower-income populations.
The complex was designed specifically for families with multiple children, reflecting a government commitment to provide affordable housing for working people. Residents gained actual ownership of their homes through installment payments, which was a significant opportunity for lower-income families at the time.
The site follows a steep hillside layout, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended for exploring the grounds. It is helpful to check in advance about visiting access and any organized tours, as availability may vary depending on resident cooperation.
The buildings adapt cleverly to the steep ravine terrain, creating a continuous horizontal profile that flows with the natural slope of the hillside rather than fighting against it. This topographic solution allowed the project to fit many homes into a challenging landscape without heavy excavation or major reshaping of the terrain.
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