The ‘Collective Patchwork, Patchwork of Collectivity’ project was developed by Aaron Swartjes for his thesis during the 2016–2017 academic year at the Faculty of Architecture, KU Leuven, Brussels campus.

‘Collective Patchwork, Patchwork of Collectivity’ is an architectural strategy aimed at encouraging the community of El Cerro, in Havana, to regenerate their neglected neighbourhood. The project offers this community a way to capitalise on the current momentum and the complex political and socio-cultural climate in Cuba. How can architecture help to harness the energy, inventiveness and entrepreneurial spirit of Cubans and transform them into assets to kick-start the development and revitalisation of their neighbourhood? The process involves the following five successive phases: a materials production centre, co-operative housing, a community centre, multi-purpose workshops, and spaces dedicated to equipment hire, start-ups and commercial activities.