This lecture delves into the evolution of collective housing in Ticino, exploring the influences and dynamics that shaped the unique architectural style known as the Ticino school. From the post-war modernist ideas to the development of a distinctive architectural language, the lecture traces the journey of architects like Snotzi, Bota, and Galfetti as they navigated the challenges of creating dense, high-quality housing solutions. The discussion also touches on the political and social contexts that influenced architectural decisions, highlighting the balance between autonomy, form, and functionality in Ticino's built environment.