The Jabuticaba Square generates a system of spaces that enhance the city of Contagem and invite community interaction. It is composed of various elements articulated with each other and with pre-existing structures.
The Grand Marquee connects the various parts of the square, creating a covered space that makes a prominent presence. It functions as a kind of city balcony, a free and shaded area. It creates a flexible space, offering possibilities instead of fixed uses.
Its structure consists of prestressed ribbed slab, with spans of 15 m between columns and 7.5 m cantilevers. The slab, in light exposed concrete, is open at some points, with its covering replaced by glass in these situations. In the closed areas, it is waterproofed and covered with rounded pebbles. The distribution of these openings creates a play of light and shadow that repeats itself at night, with artificial lighting signaling the same pattern.
The Amphitheater enhances the rear of the Cultural Center, transforming it into a second front. It integrates with the ensemble by connecting its stage to that of the Municipal Theater. Its cladding is in Portuguese sidewalk in a sand color.
Completing the landscaping are the stream and the Lake.
The stream is valued and inserted into an open channel with hand stone cladding. Its course is diverted to avoid disrupting the connection between the Grand Marquee and the Amphitheater. Thus, the amphitheater stage serves as a kind of bridge over the stream. In addition, there are other occasional crossings, which enrich the square in its integration with various paths, creating spaces for contemplation.
In addition to enhancing the square, the Lake has two technical functions. One is to shield the square from high-traffic roads at the corner of Prefeito Gil Diniz and Dr. Cassiano streets. The other is to serve as a containment in case of increased water volume in the stream, preventing the area from flooding. Also, to prevent flooding, the ground level of the square will be slightly raised.
The children's play area is created simply by the movement of the topography, resembling small hills. It will be covered with grass, and its unevenness is not pronounced enough to create hidden spots.
Several sets of new jaboticaba trees will be planted. They will be integrated with the old ones and a multitude of paths, offering various routes and opening up to leisure activities such as walking and strolling.