Possible Futures: The Manifesto that Transformed Us

What gives origin and meaning to the name Alencar Possible Futures was born from the exhibition Possible Futures. This exhibition was more than a showcase of our projects; it was a profound reflection on the role of architecture in the future and, above all, on how we can build not only for people, but together with them.

I, Nicholas Alencar, founder of Alencar Arquitetura, always had the desire to create a public exhibition in my city, Blumenau. A space where architecture could leave closed and technical circles to talk directly with society. After all, those who live, use, interpret and relate to urban spaces are not the architects, but all the people. The exhibition Possible Futures was born from this desire to bring architecture closer to people, to expand dialogue and provoke broader, more accessible and humane reflections.

Historically, architectural exhibitions in Brazil are rare, let alone about the philosophy and ideologies that underpin architectural practice. Therefore, this exhibition was a unique opportunity to present not only the projects that are being built, but also ideas and concepts that reflect our vision of the future. What drives us is the relentless quest to build better, more inclusive and sustainable futures, and that was the central message of the exhibition.

Held at the Regional University of Blumenau (FURB), in the Angelin Hall of the public library, between March and April 2024, the exhibition was a collective effort. With models, texts, photographs, videos, textures and many conversations, we were able to create an atmosphere that transcended architecture as a physical object. It became an experience about how we imagine, design, and interact with the future. This moment, duly recorded, was an essential milestone in the transformation of Alencar Arquitetura into Alencar Possible Futures.

During this process, we understand that our role goes far beyond designing buildings or urban spaces. Our purpose is to build possible futures for all, assuming our responsibility as citizens, fathers, mothers, children, and neighbors. This change in perspective made us see that the future is not a distant projection. It begins now, in the present, with the choices we make and with the way in which we connect with the other.

The exhibition also taught us something essential: the future is different and diverse. It will require spaces that embrace difference, that promote encounters, and that are permeated by empathy and connection. Possible Futures was a renaissance. We entered as Alencar Arquitetura and left transformed, with a new understanding of what it means to design cities, spaces and lives.

Now, as Alencar Possible Futures, our commitment is to build legacies with ingenuity and courage, but also with love, responsibility, and great care. We don't know exactly what the future will be like, but we are sure that it will be different. And it's up to us to design it with kindness, nature and empathy - always with the intention of leaving a better world for those who come after us.