Monterrey, like many Western developed cities, has expanded through a model that aggressively separates private and public spaces, often in a manner that fosters hostility rather than community. This urban development strategy has limited opportunities for collective living while enabling consumerism to dominate our social fabric. In response, our design seeks to redefine collective living, focusing on the creation of more open and fluid interactions.We approached the living unit as a foundational element where diverse social configurations can coexist. Instead of adhering to conventional divisions by floors and corridors, the building is conceived as a series of interconnected spaces that promote various forms of neighborly interaction. Units are arranged around open areas of varying scales and informal communal zones, such as small terraces, planted pathways, and gathering spaces. Additionally, there are larger, more purposeful spaces like playrooms, workspaces, care rooms, and expansive terraces designed for outdoor activities. Key collective spaces are strategically placed throughout the vertical progression of the building to enhance connectivity.These shared areas are designed to link otherwise isolated units, encouraging interaction and fostering a sense of community. The 150-unit complex opens towards the city through a central clustered courtyard that seamlessly connects the building’s interior with the urban environment. By offering a gradation of spaces from the most private to the most public, the building blurs the boundaries between private and public realms, ultimately aiming to restore the communal spirit to contemporary living.
