The Dzununcán Community Portico -currently under construction- began through the efforts of Red Pro Yucatán Foundation A.C., which approached to PLUG architecture team to co-develop a response to the urgent need for a community dining hall in a vulnerable area between the city of Mérida and the rural town of Dzununcan. Through participatory dialogues with local residents and groups like the community mothers' collective of the informal settlement, the project took shape as a reflection of shared needs and values.

The foundation currently provides nutritious meals twice a day to 150 children, while also supporting 237 families through educational, medical, emotional, and recreational services. Once the center is finished and in functions the next goal is to double both the number of meals served and the number of families reached.

The Portico is built around four health pillars:
-Physical: a flexible, multi-use space encourages active lifestyles through dance, exercise, and classes.
-Nutritional: meals will ensure children and families receive the nourishment they need.
-Sociocultural: the design offers a dignified, welcoming environment that replaces unsafe, neglected public spaces.
-Emotional: the center will facilitate psychological support, dialogue, and emotional care.

Additionally, the Portico is designed to serve as a shelter during natural disasters and a pilot model for other vulnerable communities in need of eco-social and bio-cultural infrastructure.

 

Social: The Dzununcán Community Portico serves as a welcoming and versatile space that currently offers daily meals to 150 children and provides comprehensive support to 237 families through programs in education, healthcare, emotional wellbeing, and recreation. Once the center is fully up and running, the aim is to expand its impact by doubling both the number of meals distributed and the families served. The project restores dignity to marginalized families while laying the groundwork for long-term community development.

Sustainability: Designed for lasting impact, the Portico incorporates passive bioclimatic strategies—like cross-ventilation through lattice walls and skylights—to reduce reliance on artificial cooling and lighting. These features lower energy use, cut utility costs, and minimize the building’s environmental footprint. A biodigester enables wastewater reuse, while durable, raw low-maintenance materials extend the building’s life and reduce repair costs.

It responds to its geographical and cultural setting with a neutral open portico that invites gathering and interaction. By addressing key issues such as hunger, health, emotional well-being, and community development, the Portico will offer a model of sustainable, inclusive, and participatory urban development.

PLUG ARCHITECTURE 
Roman Jesus Cordero Tovar / Design lead architect
Colaborators: Katia Lopezconde, Odette Lizarraga, Alfonsina Rosas, Jimena Constantino, David Boudegard, Sofia Cordero

ALIS GARCIA GAMBOA
President of the Network of Civil Society Organizations Pro Yucatán, A.C.

IVETTE LAVIADA
Legal advisor of the Network of Civil Society Organizations Pro Yucatán, A.C.

GINA DOGRE
Operative Manager of Dzununcan Community Portico

PAULINA
Representative lider of Dzununcan's community

And the mother's collective that has been part of the process!