In the past, in a less densely populated urban context, houses and buildings were built with a direct connection to the street, with no need for walls and front fences. Over time, the urban fabric was transformed, and the division between public and private spaces became increasingly evident and — under the argument of public safety — necessary. Although this division occurs in different ways in Brazilian cities, in general, walls, fences and railings are used on the facades, creating a transitional space between the building and the street, transforming the relationship between them.
The high masonry walls are one of the security elements used in condominiums, houses and buildings to guarantee the security of their space. The consequences of these walls are inanimate, deserted façades and streets and public spaces. These consequences were much questioned by theorists at the end of the 20th century and the beginning of the 21st. In contrast to this type of experience in the city, many city halls began to change their legislation seeking to build alternatives for the urban fabric. The active façade is retaken and, with it, a new variety of fences.
