The Santa Cecília district in central São Paulo is attracting real estate investments focused on affordable housing and retrofit projects. Developers like Magik JC and Plano&Plano are launching accessible developments, while Somauma revitalizes old buildings. These initiatives go beyond the bohemian stereotype of the neighborhood, benefiting low-income families.
Santa Cecília, a central São Paulo neighborhood known for its bohemian identity and 'cecilier' moniker for residents, is transforming with a focus on affordable housing. According to Secovi, 87.5% of apartment launches in the last 12 months until September cost up to R$ 350,000. The Campos Elíseos sub-region sees the highest appreciation, with the square meter price rising 3.4% in 12 months, more than double Santa Cecília's rate, per the Datazap index.
Magik JC, specializing in popular housing in the Center, launched Bem Viver Angélica, testing three-bedroom units of 40 m²—four meters more than two-bedroom ones. "We want to appeal to families seeking this format who are usually outside credit mechanisms," says André Czitrom, CEO and founder of the company. The projects incorporate elements from Brazil's golden age of architecture, such as tiles, exposed concrete, and veranda eaves.
Plano&Plano plans to create 5,000 units across six plots in the central area. Its current launch, Centro&Barão de Campinas, offers 289 apartments up to 34.56 m² in 19 floors, with shared common areas like a rooftop and playroom, targeting varied profiles such as childless couples. Incorporation director Renée Silveira notes that security concerns are waning, allowing the use of 'Center' in product names.
For sustainable options, retrofit is gaining ground. Somauma revitalized RBS 700 in Campos Elíseos, turning an old insurance building into 60 apartments with colorful murals, a biophilic landscaped terrace, bike parking, and expanded balconies. This approach reduces carbon footprint by avoiding demolitions. Somauma founder Marcelo Falcão comments: "Prices in the Center are not elastic; they have limits." A new state administrative center could spur speculation in the area.
