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Collection by Luke Hopping

A Vertical Walkway in Mexico Becomes a Leisurely Public Space

At a housing development in Mexico City, the architecture firm Ludens designed a vibrant outdoor area perfect for idling and absorbing views of the city. For more public space makeovers, check out our June issue, featuring a midcentury town square revitalization and more.

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The makeover retained the stair's linear layout for efficient circulation, while creating moments of respite. A series of ramps divert pedestrians from the main path toward gentler, more scenic routes.
The makeover retained the stair's linear layout for efficient circulation, while creating moments of respite. A series of ramps divert pedestrians from the main path toward gentler, more scenic routes.
Flatter parts of the landscape were set aside as points of congregation. With ample seating and tables, a multipurpose pavilion provides residents with an observation deck and informal gathering place.
Flatter parts of the landscape were set aside as points of congregation. With ample seating and tables, a multipurpose pavilion provides residents with an observation deck and informal gathering place.
A spacious community playground is a popular destination at the revamped outdoor area. Ludens added plants to insert more visual contrast between the natural landscape and concrete walkways.
A spacious community playground is a popular destination at the revamped outdoor area. Ludens added plants to insert more visual contrast between the natural landscape and concrete walkways.
The site, which overlooks the city, gave the firm an interesting natural attraction to work with. The vertical difference between the highest and lowest point is nearly 70 feet.
The site, which overlooks the city, gave the firm an interesting natural attraction to work with. The vertical difference between the highest and lowest point is nearly 70 feet.
Ludens capitalized on the view by orienting interactive features, such as the swing set, in its direction.
Ludens capitalized on the view by orienting interactive features, such as the swing set, in its direction.
Today the outdoor space balances leisure and efficiency, providing residents with an expedient thoroughfare between buildings as well as a place for community recreation.
Today the outdoor space balances leisure and efficiency, providing residents with an expedient thoroughfare between buildings as well as a place for community recreation.