Dense Urban Housing

UT Austin School of Architecture, Spring 2016 (Critic: Charlton Lewis)

Ciudad Miguel Alemán, Tamaulipas, is located just south of the Mexican-American border and shares a rich colonial history with its American neighbor: Roma, Texas. Its geographic position and recent economic growth suggest its population will rise dramatically as it transitions from a primarily agrarian economy to an energy-driven one, harvesting vast shale deposits and abundant wind energy potential.

Should Miguel Alemán see such growth, it will be in sore need of urban housing for the influx of workers. Electric plant workers from the border region, business executives from Monterrey and Mexico City, and engineers from the United States will all need a safe place to call home. High density is required and this complex provides 300 housing units in just over 3 hectares.

I coordinated a master plan examining a lot in west Miguel Alemán, which was further divided into sectors of varying densities. The sector I designed contained the densest housing unit aggregations, looking ahead to a pedestrian-friendly, less car-reliant future. Different units feature different amenities: closed or open terraces, carports, sun rooms, &c. Including a tower of residences creates an environment where different demographics share the same spaces. To promote this healthy urban integration, a central plaza and flanking courtyards provide public space for this diverse community to enjoy together.