Local architecture studio AMASA Estudio has repaired a communal pavilion for a housing block in Mexico City as part of an overall effort to improve public spaces in the city.
The project was commissioned and supported by local housing agency Instituto del Fondo Nacional de la Vivienda para los Trabajadores (INFONAVIT), which has been responsible for building nearly one-third of worker housing units throughout the city since the typology saw a rise in the mid-20th century.
Led by AMASA Estudio studio founders Andrea López and Agustín Pereyra, the project included repairing a central, 12-metre-high domed pavilion located in the courtyard of the agency’s first housing development, the UH INFONAVIT Iztacalco Complex, built in 1972 and located in Iztacalco.
Over the years, the central steel and concrete structure had fallen into disrepair due to “construction deficiencies”, and following a 2024 competition issued by INFONAVIT, AMASA Estudio was selected to rehabilitate the pavilion and the surrounding space.
This work included reinforcing the pavilion’s structure, as well as slipping a brightly coloured, corrugated metal roof into its dome to create a cover for a public space.
“A suspended, inclined roof system – formed by a steel grid and lightweight metal sheets – was secured with tensile steel cables,” said the studio.
“This solution optimized resources by covering the space with minimal material yet maximum impact.”
The boldly coloured materials were also chosen to contrast the grey concrete of the structure in years prior.
Other improvements to the courtyard include the addition of a neighbouring circular pavilion, covered with the same brightly covered corrugated metal panels, as well as seating and fitness equipment.
According to the studio, AMASA Estudio was selected for the project given a submission that focused largely on in-depth site analysis, financial feasibility and collaborative project management across multiple public entities.
“Ultimately, this project demonstrates that large budgets are not always necessary – what matters most is a well-planned, well-managed, and well-designed public investment strategy that breathes new life into communal spaces and strengthens the social fabric of Mexico City’s housing communities,” said the studio.
Other similar projects include a nearby community centre designed by WORKac and Ignacio Urquiza and a series of public spaces designed by Boldarini Arquitectura e Urbanismo to improve informal favelas in São Paulo.
The photography is by Zaick Moz courtesy of AMASA Estudio
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