Uh infonavit Iztacalco reconsider communal places in Mexico
UH Infonavit focuses on the IZTACALCO project by Astudio Revival Communal place within a historic housing complex in MexicoIntervention center steel The structure, originally incomplete and deteriorated, is now adapted with a new roof system that provides shelter and increases the purpose. The project introduces a 260 sqm cover platform, integrated landscape Elements for Parkaur and Calisthanics, and designated areas, improve the functionality of the space while maintaining efficient physical use.
Since the mid -20th century, Mexico City has expanded its collective housing development, with almost half of the population living in the Multifamily Housing Complex. Of these, Infonavit (Instituteo del Fondo National de la Vivianda Para Los Tubzadorus) has created an important part, although many have experienced a decline of infrastructure due to aging and lack of maintenance. The UH Infonavit Iztacalco Complex built in 1972 was the first of its kind developed by the institute. Initially the characteristic of an artificial lake, the site amended after the 1979 earthquake, which led to a structural framework for public use with the drainage of the lake and later a structural structure in a park. The project developed by Andrea Lopez and Agustin Perera, the leading architects of Amasa Estudio, focuses on a comprehensive reform strategy implemented within the communal areas of four of the most representative housing complexes in the city of Mexico: Iztacalco, Santa Fee, Ax El Ro Rosario, and Ignocyo.
All pictures by Ziks socks
Amasa focuses on structural adaptation and material efficiency
Competition winning proposal by Amasa Architectural studio Addressing the need to attach the existing steel structure, provided protection from the sun and rain while maintaining openness and adaptability. The intervention column confirms the structural system through the base and additional support in the steel joints, optimizing the stability of the framework. A suspended, interested ceiling was made up of a steel grid and light corrugated metal sheets, which was secured by the tensile steel cable to maximize coverage by reducing the use of materials. The project also incorporate chromatic and texural modifications, which increases spatial experience through the content. The pigmented concrete in hot tones defines the platform and primary structural elements, while the turquoise-green steel framework supports the new roof. The color selection reacts to the surrounding environment, introducing a view contrast to the original gray concrete.
The project required coordination between Amas Estdio, Construction Team and government agencies to ensure compliance with urban and structural rules. The intervention was fulfilled in four months with an investment of about eight million peso, with efficient resource allocation. All temporary construction elements were removed by subsequent post-options, leaving only the required structural reinforcement as part of the final design.
The UH Infonavit Iztacalco project revives a historical communal place within a Mexico City Housing Complex
Adaptive design for community interaction and entertainment
Customized space acts as a public platform integrating entertaining and social characteristics. The covered area supports community ceremonies, while adjacent sections offer informal seating and interactive areas. Including Parkaur and Callisthanics areas, introducing dynamic movement locations within the housing complex, increasing physical activity opportunities for the residents. The reconstruction of the existing structure aligns with contemporary requirements, ensuring that the space remains adapted over time.
UH Infonavit IZTACALCO project by Amasa Estudio shows a approach to complex revival through efficient design strategies. By integrating structural reinforcement, material adaptation and programmatic flexibility, interference shows how less communal locations can be adapted for contemporary use. The project establishes a model for equal intervention in Mexico City, emphasizing strategic plan and resource efficiency as fundamental principles in the growth of collective urban environments.
The intervention introduces a 260 sqm cover platform, promoting community interaction and activity
The intervention involves colored and text modifications to increase spatial experience
A semi-golacious steel structure, once incomplete, now features a new roof system for increased purpose
