Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired, Mauricio Rocha

\Photograph by Luis Gordoa

Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired / Taller de Arquitectura-Mauricio Rocha - Courtyard, Facade, Bench
Photograph by Luis Gordoa

Architects: Mauricio Rocha, Taller de Arquitectura Mauricio Rocha

Area: 91,493 ft²

Year Built: 2001

City/State: Iztapalapa, Mexico City

Country: Mexico

Located in Iztapalapa, Mexico City, the Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired is designed to address the unique sensory and social needs of its users.

The center was established as part of the government’s initiative to address the pressing need for services in one of the city’s most densely populated and underserved districts. Iztapalapa not only has one of the highest populations in Mexico City but also the largest concentration of visually impaired residents making this essentially very critical.

Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired / Taller de Arquitectura-Mauricio Rocha - Image 2 of 28
Photograph by Luis Gordoa

Constructed from volcanic rock, the boundary wall encloses the complex on all sides, acting as both an acoustic barrier and a retaining wall for earth relocated from nearby areas. While its exterior is minimal and unadorned, the interior facade transforms into varied banks that shift in shape, height, and orientation, forming a series of intimate courtyards. These enclosed outdoor spaces enhance sensory experiences, offering quiet, reflective areas for users within the bustling district.

Centre for visually imparied rocha carrillo architectural review drawings 2
Drawing Courtesy of Taller de Arquitectura Mauricio Rocha
Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired / Taller de Arquitectura-Mauricio Rocha - Image 28 of 28
Drawing Courtesy of Taller de Arquitectura Mauricio Rocha

Materiality is vital in this project as it enhances spatial perception, activating the senses as sources of experience and information. Organized into rectangular prisms with concrete frames and flat roofs, each section varies in size, light intensity, and material weight to make spaces easily identifiable. Rammed earth was also chosen for its contrasting textures to the volcanic rock to provide tactile cues that aid navigation.

Gallery of Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired / Taller de  Arquitectura-Mauricio Rocha - 4
Photograph by Luis Gordoa
Centre for visually imparied rocha carrillo architectural review drawings
Drawing Courtesy of Taller de Arquitectura Mauricio Rocha

The floor plan functions as a series of “filters” extending from the entrance, beginning with administrative offices, a cafeteria, and utility spaces. This layout, combined with sensory materials, allows users to navigate intuitively.. Overall, this thoughtful space prioritizes accessibility and engagement, creating an environment that fosters independence, and comfort.

References:

Center for the Blind and Visually Impaired / Taller de Arquitectura-Mauricio Rocha.” ArchDaily, 11 Aug. 2011, www.archdaily.com/158301/center-for-the-blind-and-visually-impaired-taller-de-arquitectura-mauricio-rocha?ad_medium=gallery.