ABBA: Architecture for Dignity, Inclusion and Peace
A social project under construction in Celaya, Guanajuato, designed to support migrant populations — especially those with disabilities or in highly vulnerable conditions — through a deeply human, accessible and inclusive architectural model.
ABBA is one of the projects that most deeply represents our work.
It was born not simply from an architectural need, but from a human urgency: to create a dignified, accessible and safe place for migrants living in conditions of vulnerability. In Celaya, this project under construction aims to become a model of inclusion, care and peace — designed through direct listening and collaboration between architecture, civil society and international organizations.
A Project We Are Proud Of
At Mario López Architecture, we believe architecture can go far beyond form: it can become refuge, care, integration and hope.
The ABBA Human Rights Cultural Center, located in Celaya, Guanajuato, is one of the most meaningful projects we have developed. More than a building, it is a vision under construction: a space designed to offer dignified, accessible and transformative support to migrants traveling through Mexico under extremely vulnerable circumstances.
This project has been developed through a collaborative design effort with Diego Martineck and Alhan Michel of Martineck Arquitectos, bringing together architecture, social sensitivity and a constant search to create a replicable model for humanitarian care and inclusion.
Our Story
A Design Process Built on Listening
From the beginning, the ABBA project was not conceived as a generic solution, but as a specific response to complex human realities.
The design process was developed through active listening and direct contact with migrant communities, understanding their journeys, injuries, mobility challenges, medical needs, rehabilitation requirements, and the importance of rest, safety and emotional support. This approach allowed the architectural proposal to emerge from a deeply human foundation: spaces designed not only to shelter, but to heal, guide, protect and restore dignity.
Throughout the process, the project has remained closely connected with organizations and support networks working with migrant populations, including dialogue and collaboration with international actors such as UNHCR, LARF and IOM, reinforcing the vision of ABBA as a contemporary model of comprehensive humanitarian support.
Inclusive Architecture by Conviction
ABBA has been conceived under principles of universal accessibility, social inclusion and spatial dignity.
The architectural proposal seeks to create spaces that are safe, understandable, welcoming and adaptable to people with diverse physical and emotional conditions. The design aims to remove barriers, facilitate orientation, promote autonomy and create an atmosphere of peace.
The complex includes medical areas, rehabilitation spaces, training workshops, living quarters, dining areas, a library, a children’s learning space, administrative areas and open community spaces — forming a comprehensive ecosystem of care and integration.
Expected Impact
ABBA emerges as a response to an urgent reality. According to the project’s base data:
More than 2,000 migrants with disabilities travel through the region every year.
68% report physical injuries or emotional trauma during their journey.
Less than 1% have access to specialized rehabilitation services.
In response to this situation, the new center proposes a concrete solution:
Capacity to host 96 asylum-seeking migrants simultaneously
More than 3,840 medical consultations per year
2,000 people trained annually through integration and vocational workshops
3,000 physical rehabilitation sessions per year
Psychological support services focused on trauma recovery
Each of these numbers represents a real opportunity for rebuilding lives.
Design Collaboration
Design project developed by
Mario López Architecture
In collaboration with
Diego Martineck and Alhan Michel
Martineck Arquitectos
In coordination with
ABBA A.C. and networks supporting migrant populations, including dialogue and collaboration with international organizations such as UNHCR, LARF and IOM.
Donating Means Building Dignity
ABBA needs partners.
This project is moving forward thanks to the collaboration of civil society, organizations, donors and individuals committed to a more humane vision of our shared future. Supporting ABBA means helping build a place that will restore safety, care and dignity to those who need it most.
Make a donation here:
At Mario López Architecture, we believe that the most meaningful projects are those that do more than solve spatial needs — they transform how society cares for others.
ABBA is one of those projects.
